Help with a Real Analysis Proof

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around two distinct proofs in real analysis. The first proof concerns the expression \(2^n + 3^n\) and its divisibility by 5 for all odd natural numbers \(n\). The second proof addresses the existence of a rational number \(r\) such that the absolute difference between a real number \(a\) and \(r\) is less than \(1/n\) for any natural number \(n\).

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore proof techniques such as contradiction and induction for the first problem. There is also a suggestion to consider modular arithmetic. For the second problem, the concept of the density of rationals is mentioned, with discussions on the validity of the proof structure.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights and alternative approaches to the problems, while others have expressed uncertainty about the classification of the first problem as a real analysis question. The discussion appears to be ongoing, with multiple interpretations being explored.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the need for clarity regarding the classification of the first problem and the assumptions underlying the proofs being discussed.

vyro
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Homework Statement



Prove that 2^n + 3^n is a multiple of 5 for all odd n that exist in the set of natural numbers.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



Suppose the contrary perhaps and do a proof by contradiction? Perhaps induction?

edit: done, thank you. please look at second proof :)
 
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Also, another proof:

Homework Statement



Prove that for each a that exists in real numbers and n that exists in natural numbers there exists a rational r such that abs(a-r) < 1/n

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



I believe it has something to do with the theorem on density of rationals.
 
i don't think the first question is a real analysis problem. try working in mod 5. what's 2^n mod 5 and 3^n mod 5 for odd n?
 
yeah, i redid the first one using a proof by induction. thanks for the response though.
 
vyro said:
Also, another proof:

Homework Statement



Prove that for each a that exists in real numbers and n that exists in natural numbers there exists a rational r such that abs(a-r) < 1/n

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I believe it has something to do with the theorem on density of rationals.
Yes, saying that |a- r|= |r- a|< 1/n is the same as saying that -1/n< r- a< 1/n or that a- 1/n< r< a+ 1/n. Since there exist a rational number in any interval, there exist a rational number in the interval (a- 1/n, a+ 1/n).
 
HallsofIvy said:
Yes, saying that |a- r|= |r- a|< 1/n is the same as saying that -1/n< r- a< 1/n or that a- 1/n< r< a+ 1/n. Since there exist a rational number in any interval, there exist a rational number in the interval (a- 1/n, a+ 1/n).

is that valid as a proof though, starting from the conclusion and then reaffirming it?
 

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