Attempt at proof by contradiction need verification

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on proving that the sum of the squares of any two consecutive even integers is never a multiple of 8. Participants clarify that consecutive even integers can be represented as 2x and 2x + 2, and they question the initial labeling of the proof as one by contradiction since it does not follow that method. There is confusion regarding attachments that contain the attempted proof, with some users unable to access the documents. The consensus is that the problem should be approached algebraically rather than through contradiction. Overall, the focus remains on correctly formulating the proof and understanding the mathematical properties involved.
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Homework Statement


GCSE past paper question.
prove algebraically that the sum of the squares of any two consecutive even integers is never a multiple of 8

Homework Equations



none

The Attempt at a Solution



n and x are integers 2x and 2x+2 represent two consecutive even integers.

see attachment.
 

Attachments

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No, those arn't consecutive even integers. Just put x = 1, you get 2 and 3. 3 is not even.
 
alternative non word attachment, mathematica
 

Attachments

dx said:
No, those arn't consecutive even integers. Just put x = 1, you get 2 and 3. 3 is not even.

sorry should be 2x+2

i will edit the post

the document workings are as 2x+2

further help would be appreciated thanks
 
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Ok, "two consectutive even numbers" can be represented as 2x and 2x+ 2. Now, what is the sum of their squares? What is the remainder of that number when divided by 8? And why did you label this "attempt at proof by contradiction" when there was no such attempt? And since the problem says "prove algebraically" I see no reason to even try proof by contradiction.
 
HallsofIvy said:
Ok, "two consectutive even numbers" can be represented as 2x and 2x+ 2. Now, what is the sum of their squares? What is the remainder of that number when divided by 8? And why did you label this "attempt at proof by contradiction" when there was no such attempt? And since the problem says "prove algebraically" I see no reason to even try proof by contradiction.

see microsoft word attatchment or mathmatica attatchment for the attempt. for a contridiction i made the sum equal to the multiple of 8.
 
When I try to open the word attachment I see letters covered by black rectangles. I don't have mathematica so I can't open that. I don't see any reason to use "contradiction". Are you required to prove it that way?
 
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