Proving the Formula for Fibonacci Numbers using Strong Induction

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In summary, the conversation discusses a problem in a proofs class involving the use of strong induction to show that the Fibonacci numbers can be given by a specific formula. The issue at hand is the induction step, where the equation given by f(n) + f(n-1) needs to be represented with n+1 as the power instead of n. A hint is provided, stating that the solutions to x² - x - 1 = 0 satisfy x+1 = x². The use of LaTeX is encouraged to show work and provide a helpful hint without giving away too much.
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moo5003
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Basically my problem comes down to an algebra thing. This is a proofs class and I'm trying to show using strong induction that the fionacci numbers to the nth power can be given by the formula

1 / Radical (5) [ (1+Rad(5) / 2) ^ n - (1-Rad(5) / 2) ^ n.

My problem comes down to the induction step.. after substiting the assumed for f(n) and f(n-1) and adding those to equal f(n+1) I have no clue how to get the equation given by f(n) + f(n-1) represent the above witn n+1 as the powers instead of n. Any help here would be greatly appreciated.
 
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  • #2
Hint:

[tex]\frac{1\pm\sqrt{5}}{2}[/tex]

are the solutions to x² - x - 1 = 0, so they satisfy x+1 = x². Anyways, please use LaTeX and show your work, because this problem is quite straightforward, so it's hard to guess where you're getting stuck. Therefore, it's hard to know what hint to give that will be useful but won't give too much away.
 
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1. What is the Fibonacci sequence?

The Fibonacci sequence is a series of numbers where each number is the sum of the two preceding ones, starting from 0 and 1. The first few numbers in the sequence are 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, and so on.

2. How is the Fibonacci sequence used in "Fibonacci Number Crunch"?

In "Fibonacci Number Crunch", the Fibonacci sequence is used as a mathematical tool to analyze data and make predictions. By identifying patterns and relationships within the sequence, scientists can gain insight into various phenomena.

3. What are some real-world applications of Fibonacci numbers?

Fibonacci numbers and the Fibonacci sequence are used in a variety of fields, including finance, biology, and computer science. They can be used to model population growth, analyze stock market trends, and create efficient computer algorithms.

4. Is there a limit to how high the Fibonacci sequence can go?

Technically, there is no limit to how high the Fibonacci sequence can go. However, as the numbers get larger, they become increasingly difficult to calculate and are often rounded to the nearest whole number for practical purposes.

5. How does the Fibonacci sequence relate to the golden ratio?

The golden ratio, also known as the divine proportion, is a mathematical concept that is closely related to the Fibonacci sequence. As the numbers in the Fibonacci sequence get larger, the ratio between each consecutive pair approaches the golden ratio of 1.618. This ratio is often found in the proportions of natural objects and is considered aesthetically pleasing.

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