Are 2^((n-2)/2) - 1 and 2^(2n) + 1 Relatively Prime?

  • Context: Graduate 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Naveenks
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Prime Proof
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving whether the numbers 2^((n-2)/2) - 1 and 2^(2n) + 1 are relatively prime. It is established that for odd values of n, the first expression does not yield an integer. Specifically, when n=18, the first number evaluates to 255 and the second to 2^36 + 1, both of which are divisible by 17, confirming that the two numbers are not relatively prime for all values of n.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of number theory concepts, particularly prime numbers.
  • Familiarity with exponentiation and its properties.
  • Basic knowledge of divisibility rules.
  • Experience with mathematical proofs and logical reasoning.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of prime numbers and their relationships.
  • Learn about divisibility tests and their applications in number theory.
  • Explore mathematical proof techniques, such as contradiction and induction.
  • Investigate the implications of odd and even integers in mathematical expressions.
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, students studying number theory, and anyone interested in the properties of integers and their relationships.

Naveenks
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Hi, Can anyone help me how to prove that the two numbers 2^((n-2)/2) -1, 2^(2n) + 1 are relatively prime?
Thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi, Naveenks,
check the question again; if n is odd, the first number is not an integer.

Besides, when n=18, the first number would be 2^8-1 = 255, and the second 2^36+1, and both are divisible by 17.
 
Thanks Dodo...I got it that the two numbers are not relatively prime for all values of n...
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Replies
48
Views
6K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K