a problem of number theory

[lhuyvn]

Hi again,

how about the below problem, please give me advice.

Let x and y be possitive integers such that 3x+7y is divisible by 11. Which of the following must also be divisible by 11
A. 4x+6y
B. x+y=5
C. 9x+4y
D .4x-9y
E. x+y-1

[matt grime]

my advice is to learn about the highest common factor, or greatest common divisor, and the ideal (gcd(x,y))=(d)={ax+by | a,b in Z}, oh, and notice at least on of them is of a different kind of expression than the others and isnt' even an integer, heck, isn't even a number.

[maverick280857]

HI

Option B cannot be a valid one since its an equation (pls check).

As 3x + 7y is divisible by 11,

3x + 7y = 11k (for some k)

Clearly, multiples of this "equation" will also be divisible by 11. I can't comment further until you check the validity of the options....

Cheers
Vivek

[maverick280857]

Yeah Matts right; the GCD idea didn't strike me though :-)

Cheers
Vivek

[lhuyvn]

Hi there,

I found that we could deduce as following.
3x+7y =0 (mod 11)
<=> 8x+4y=0 (mod 11)
<=> 4x+2y=0 (mod 11)
<=>4x-9y=0 (mod 11)

So the answer is D

Thank so much for all your help,

[Gokul43201]

In general, 8x+4y==0 does not imply that 4x+2y==0. But this is true mod an odd number, which is why it works for 11. You probably knew this when you went through that step. If you didn't, this is just a reminder to be careful when you divide !

Your answer is correct.

[1+1=1]

i too am taking a number theory course and we have just started with modulos. i had a heck of a time learning it until i came here. i think i can do better when i am explaining the info to someone else thus making me remember the information.


BTW!!! i plan on being a future teacher in mathematics. are there any posts that are devoted to teachers and all? :confused: