Odd Integer Squares: Proving 8k+1

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving that the square of an odd integer can be expressed in the form of 8k + 1, where k is an integer. The subject area pertains to number theory, specifically properties of odd integers and their squares.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the algebraic expression of odd integers and their squares, with attempts to rearrange the expression into the desired form. Questions arise regarding the notation used for integers and the implications of the variables involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights and clarifications. Some guidance has been offered regarding the algebraic manipulation of the expression, while questions about the notation and the nature of the integers involved continue to be addressed.

Contextual Notes

There is a focus on understanding the implications of the notation used, particularly concerning the set of integers. Participants are also questioning the assumptions about the integer k in relation to the proof being discussed.

Meh
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Prove that the square of an odd integer is always of the 8k + 1, where k is an integer. Any help would be appreciated.
 
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An even integer can be written as [tex]2n, \ n \in \mathbb{Z}[/tex]
And an odd integer can be written as [tex]2n + 1, \ n \in \mathbb{Z}[/tex]
For example : 5 = 2 * 2 + 1 (n = 2), 7 = 2 * 3 + 1 (n = 3), 13 = 2 * 6 + 1 (n = 6).
So the quare of an add integer can be written as: [tex](2n + 1) ^ 2 = 4n ^ 2 + 4n + 1[/tex]
You will try to arrange [itex]4n ^ 2 + 4n + 1[/itex] into 8k + 1. Since you have '+ 1' in both sides, in fact, you just need to arrange [itex]4n ^ 2 + 4n[/itex] into 8k.
Can you go from here?
Viet Dao,
 
Last edited:
Hmm what does that "Z" in "n belongs to ..." mean? Not to fimilar with that sign :P
 
[itex]Z[/itex] is the set of all integers, ie: [itex]\mathbb{Z} = \{..., \ -3, \ , -2, \ , -1, \ 0, \ 1, \ 2, \ 3, \ ... \}[/itex]
Do you get it now?
Viet Dao,
 
Still don't get it >.< Sorry.
 
[tex]n \in \mathbb{Z}[/tex] means that n is an integer.
And because:
[tex]\mathbb{Z} = \{..., \ -3, \ -2, \ -1, \ 0, \ 1, \ 2, \ 3, \ ... \}[/tex]
So:
[tex]n \in \{..., \ -3, \ -2, \ -1, \ 0, \ 1, \ 2, \ 3, \ ... \}[/tex]
That means n can take any value from that set, n can be -3, or -5, or 9, or 10, or 14, or 600, or -1004, ...
Viet Dao,
 
I understood that, just not the how to solve >.<
 
An odd integer: [tex]2n + 1, \ n \in \mathbb{Z}[/tex]
So the square of an odd integer is: [tex](2n + 1) ^ 2 = 4n ^ 2 + 4n + 1[/tex].
You are going to prove [tex]\forall n \in \mathbb{Z},\ \exists k \in \mathbb{Z} \ | \ 4n ^ 2 + 4n + 1 = 8k + 1[/tex]
+ 1 is in both sides, so you are going to prove:
[tex]\forall n \in \mathbb{Z},\ \exists k \in \mathbb{Z} \ | \ 4n ^ 2 + 4n = 8k[/tex]
Note that:
[itex]4n ^ 2 + 4n = 4n(n + 1)[/itex]
What can you say about the product of two successive integers? ie : n * (n + 1).
Can you go from here?
Viet Dao,
 
Ah, alrite I can go from there. Thanks Viet Dao.
 
  • #10
hi, I'm wondering, isn't [tex]\forall k[/tex]? cause k is stated to be an integer? just making sure..
 
  • #11
It can't be for all k, because:
k = 4:
8 * 4 + 1 = 32 + 1 = 33, and 33 is not a square of any integer.
k = 5:
8 * 5 + 1 = 40 + 1 = 41, and 41 is not a square of any integer.
Viet Dao,
 

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