Two Binary trees of Rational numbers -- the S-tree and the SC-tree

Abstract

In this study, we explore a novel approach to demonstrate the countability of rational numbers and illustrate the relationship between the Calkin-Wilf tree and the Stern-Brocot tree in a more intuitive manner. By employing a growth pattern akin to that of the Calkin-Wilf tree, we construct the S-tree and establish a one-to-one correspondence between the vertices of the S-tree and the rational numbers in the interval $(0,1]$ using 0-1 sequences. To broaden the scope of this concept, we further develop the SC-tree, which is proven to encompass all positive rational numbers, with each rational number appearing only once. We also delve into the interplay among these four trees and offer some applications for the newly introduced tree structures.