[Python-Dev] Rational approximation methods (original) (raw)

Paul Moore p.f.moore at gmail.com
Mon Jan 21 09:44:25 CET 2008

On 21/01/2008, Tim Peters <tim.peters at gmail.com> wrote:

What would be useful is a method that generates (i.e., a generator in the Python sense) the (continued fraction) convergents to a rational. People wanting specific constraints on a rational approximation (including, but not limited to, the two you identified) can easily build them on top of such a generator.

Interesting. I thought of suggesting something like this, but my potential use cases are so rare that I couldn't justify it. But as you say, it's one general building block from which any other desired functionality can be produced.

By "useful" I don't mean lots of people will use it ;-) I mean /some/ people will use it -- a way to generate the sequence of convergents is a fundamental tool that can be used for all sorts of stuff, by those with advanced applications.

Good point. Fundamental tools belong in the library. +1

Paul.

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