Discrete Math Proof: Proving Equivalence of 4 Statements

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the equivalence of four statements related to the parity of an integer \( n \) and its square. Participants are attempting to clarify the problem statement and explore the implications of the definitions of odd and even integers.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the problem, noting that two statements are even and two are odd, which seems contradictory to the requirement for equivalence.
  • Another participant questions the accuracy of the copied statements, specifically pointing out the repetition of statement (a) and (c).
  • A participant provides a link to the assignment to verify the statements, asserting that they are copied correctly.
  • There is a discussion about the definitions of even and odd integers, with one participant admitting to a misunderstanding regarding the assumption that \( n \) is even.
  • Another participant suggests changing statement (c) to \( n^3 \) is odd to resolve the confusion caused by the typo.
  • A participant challenges the reasoning behind the manipulation of \( n \) and its square, questioning the validity of equating \( n \) to \( n^2 \).

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correctness of the problem statement, with some believing it is accurate while others insist there is a mistake. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of the definitions of odd and even integers.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the clarity of the problem statement due to potential typos, and the discussion reflects varying interpretations of the definitions of odd and even integers.

MarcL
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Homework Statement


Prove that the following four statements are equivalent:
(a) n2 is odd.
(b) 1 − n is even.
(c) n2 is odd.
(d) n2 + 1 is even.

Homework Equations



None really, just the use of different proofs ( indirect, etc...)

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm having trouble with this one because of (2) things. First, the question makes no sense ( unless I'm reading it wrong) because, as I understand it now, it is asking to prove all statements are equivalent BUT 2 of them are eve and the rest is odd. Secondly, I'm having trouble with it because of the definition that n=2k is EVEN and n=2k+1 is odd because I tried this:

Supposle n is odd.
n=2k therefore n=(2k)2= 22k2 = 2(2k2) which goes against the definition.

Can anyone point me in the right direction?
 
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MarcL said:
(a) n2 is odd.
(b) 1 − n is even.
(c) n2 is odd.
(d) n2 + 1 is even.
Uh ... are you sure you copied (a) and (c) correctly?
 
I promise you I did, if you want to see the assignment yourself you can check :P --> #4 http://users.encs.concordia.ca/~grahne/comp232/assgn2.pdf
 
MarcL said:
I promise you I did, if you want to see the assignment yourself you can check :P --> #4 http://users.encs.concordia.ca/~grahne/comp232/assgn2.pdf
Exactly. You copied it incorrectly, as is obvious.
 
not at all, my assumption of n being even was just wrong, but that's all I've been taught before so I thought it was a set definition. anyway case closed.
 
MarcL said:
not at all, my assumption of n being even was just wrong, but that's all I've been taught before so I thought it was a set definition. anyway case closed.
You misunderstand. You copied the problem incorrectly. Do you not see the obvious mistake?
 
I somehow read d... definitely sorry about that. I'll go crawl in a hole now.
 
" I'll go crawl in a hole now." Can't see any reason to do that! Just change c) to n3 is odd , then carry on. No need to worry about a trivial typo.

So, " n=2k therefore n=(2k)2 " what makes you say that?
It's just like saying n=n2 which is not generally true.
 

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