I tried with comparing highest exponents

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The discussion centers on the mathematical expression z = (2^(mn) - 1)/[(2^m - 1)(2^n - 1)], where (2^m - 1) and (2^n - 1) are established as prime numbers. The user seeks to prove that these two primes are not the only prime factors of z. Attempts to express z in terms of (2^m - 1)^a * (2^n - 1)^b have proven unsuccessful, and the user highlights the need to demonstrate that 2^(mn) - 1 cannot be factored solely into these two primes. The discussion emphasizes the complexity of the problem and the necessity for further mathematical exploration.

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  • Understanding of prime factorization in number theory
  • Familiarity with Mersenne primes, specifically (2^m - 1) and (2^n - 1)
  • Knowledge of algebraic manipulation of exponential expressions
  • Experience with mathematical proof techniques
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  • Research the properties of Mersenne primes and their role in number theory
  • Study the factorization of expressions of the form 2^(mn) - 1
  • Explore mathematical proof strategies for demonstrating non-factorability
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helgamauer
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We have:
z = (2^(mn) - 1)/[(2^m - 1)(2^n - 1)], where (2^m - 1) and (2^n - 1) are prime numbers.
Prove that (2^m - 1) and (2^n - 1) are not the only prime factors of z.

I tried to solve it writing z = (2^m - 1)^a * (2^n - 1)^b and proving that it is not correct. But I don't know how. I also noticed that it would be sufficient to prove that 2^(mn) - 1 can't be written as ((2^m - 1)^x * (2^n - 1)^y but I also have no idea how to prove it. I tried with comparing highest exponents, but nothing..
It will be fantastic if you help me with proving this fact.
 
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* And i meant (2^m -1) and (2^n -1) are two different ODD primes. May anybody help?
 

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