Real Number Calculations and Theorem Proving

Cesar Munoz, David Lester

Abstract

Wouldn't it be nice to be able to conveniently use ordinary real number expressions within proof assistants? In this paper we outline how this can be done within a theorem proving framework. First, we formally establish upper and lower bounds for trigonometric and transcendental functions. Then, based on these bounds, we develop a rational interval arithmetic where real number calculations can be performed in an algebraic setting. This pragmatic approach has been implemented as a strategy in PVS. The strategy provides a safe way to perform explicit calculations over real numbers in formal proofs.

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