Divisibility by 11: Proving the Alternating Sum Method

In summary, the conversation discusses the 11 divisibility proof, which is a rule used to determine if a number is divisible by 11. It involves finding the difference between the sum of the digits in the odd and even places, and if this difference is either 0 or a multiple of 11, then the number is divisible by 11. An example is given with the number 132, and it is noted that this rule is accurate for all numbers larger than 11. The 11 divisibility proof is also related to other divisibility rules, such as the 3 and 9 rules, and it is important in mathematics because it allows for quick determination of divisibility and helps understand number patterns and properties.
  • #1
Mattofix
138
0

Homework Statement



what is the test to to see if a number is divisible by 11 and prove it.


The Attempt at a Solution



If the alternating sum of a numbers digits is divisble by 11 then so is the number.


I don't know how to prove it tho.
 
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  • #2
Do a simple case. Take a two digit number n. First digit a, second digit b. So n=a*10+b. Rewrite this as n=a*10+((b-a)+a)=a*10+a+(b-a). Now a*10+a is always divisible by 11 (why?). So if (b-a) is divisible by 11, then n is.
 
  • #3
because it equals 11a.

thanks!
 

1. How do you prove that a number is divisible by 11?

To prove that a number is divisible by 11, you can use the divisibility rule which states that if the difference between the sum of the digits in the odd places and the sum of the digits in the even places is either 0 or a multiple of 11, then the number is divisible by 11.

2. Can you give an example of using the 11 divisibility proof?

Let's take the number 132. The sum of its odd digits (1 and 2) is 3 and the sum of its even digits (3) is also 3. Therefore, 3-3=0, which is a multiple of 11. This means that 132 is divisible by 11.

3. Is the 11 divisibility proof accurate for all numbers?

Yes, the 11 divisibility proof is accurate for all numbers. However, it is important to note that this rule only works for numbers that are larger than 11.

4. How does the 11 divisibility proof relate to other divisibility rules?

The 11 divisibility proof is part of a larger set of divisibility rules which help determine if a number is divisible by a specific number. It is often used in conjunction with other rules, such as the 3 and 9 divisibility rules.

5. Why is the 11 divisibility proof important in mathematics?

The 11 divisibility proof is important in mathematics because it allows us to quickly determine if a number is divisible by 11 without having to perform the actual division. This can be especially useful when working with large numbers. It also helps us better understand the patterns and properties of numbers.

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