Question about a number theory result

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between ##n##, ##j##, and ##2j## in the context of proving something else. It is concluded that if ##n## divides ##2j##, then ##j## must be either 0 or ##n##. This is due to the fact that ##j## is within the range of ##[0, n-1]## and cannot be greater than or equal to ##2n##. The use of interval notation from analysis and lattice theory was also mentioned.
  • #1
Mr Davis 97
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Suppose that ##n,j \in \mathbb{N}##, ##j \in [0, n-1]##, and ##n~|~2j##. Why is it the case that ##j = 0## or ##2j = n##? This is used in a proof of something else, but I am getting tripped up on this part. I know it has to do with the fact that ##j \in [0, n-1]##. Is it because ##n## can't ever divide 2 or j separately and the quantity 2j is never greater than or equal to 2n, then if it divides anything it must divide 0 or ##n##?
 
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  • #2
##0 \leq 2j < 2n##. To be a multiple of n it has to be either 0 or n, everything else is not in that range.
 
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  • #3
Instead of using interval notation from analysis, in number theory we denote ##[n] := \{ k\leq n\}\subset\mathbb N ##. The interval notation is also used in lattice theory, which might confuse the reader into thinking you are viewing the interval ##[0,n-1] ## in the lattice ##(\mathbb N, \mid) ##.

Suppose ##j > 0 ##. We have ##kn = 2j ##. Assuming ##k>1 ## immediately puts you out of range since ##2j\leq 2(n-1)< kn ##. Obviously ## k=0## is out of question so there is only one option.
 

1. What is number theory?

Number theory is a branch of mathematics that deals with the properties and relationships of integers. It involves studying patterns and structures within numbers and their properties. It is a fundamental subject in mathematics and has applications in many fields, such as cryptography, coding theory, and computer science.

2. What is a prime number?

A prime number is a positive integer greater than 1 that is only divisible by 1 and itself. In other words, it has exactly two positive divisors. Examples of prime numbers include 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, and so on. Prime numbers play a crucial role in number theory and have many important applications in various fields.

3. What is the significance of the Goldbach conjecture in number theory?

The Goldbach conjecture is a famous unsolved problem in number theory, which states that every even integer greater than 2 can be expressed as the sum of two prime numbers. This conjecture has been studied by mathematicians for centuries and has led to many important developments in number theory. Its proof, if it exists, will have significant implications in the field of mathematics.

4. What is the difference between a theorem and a conjecture in number theory?

A theorem is a mathematical statement that has been proven to be true using rigorous mathematical reasoning. On the other hand, a conjecture is a statement that is believed to be true but has not yet been proven. Conjectures serve as starting points for further research and can eventually be proven as theorems.

5. What are some real-world applications of number theory?

Number theory has many applications in the real world, such as in cryptography, where it is used to develop secure communication systems. It also has applications in coding theory, which is essential in data compression and error-correction codes used in computer networks. Number theory also plays a significant role in computer science, particularly in the analysis of algorithms and complexity theory.

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