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rbzima
Aug26-09, 11:48 AM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

We select n + 1 different integers from the set {1,2,...,2n}. Prove that there will always be two among the selected integers whose largest common divisor is 1.

2. Relevant equations

None

3. The attempt at a solution

I was thinking that this problem has something to do with the pigeonhole principle, however I'm pretty stuck here and don't even know where to get started...

foxjwill
Aug26-09, 01:03 PM
You're correct that it uses the pigeonhole principle.

What are the possible gcd's for an arbitrary pair of integers from the set {1,2,...,2n}?

rbzima
Aug26-09, 10:53 PM
Figured it out... Thanks for the help...

Essentially, gcd(k, k+1) is a good candidate! =)

foxjwill
Aug28-09, 01:48 PM
Exactly!