Proving the Fibonacci Numbers Using Induction

In summary, the conversation is about using induction to prove the statement \sum^n_{k=1} f_{2k-1} = f_{2n}. The first part of the attempt is to show that f3 is valid by showing f2 + f1 = f3. The next part involves showing that the statement is true for n=j+1, assuming it is true for n=j.
  • #1
rooski
61
0

Homework Statement



use induction to prove

(my formatting is off sorry)
[tex]\overline{n} \sum \underline{k=1} f _{2k-1} = f_{2n}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



To start we need to show that f3 is valid. So we show that f2 + f1 = f3, which is the case.

The next part is the confusing part for me. Do i have to show a sum ending at n+1 that computes f2k-1 = f2n+1?
 
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  • #2
It seems that what you want is:

[tex] \sum^n_{k=1} f_{2k-1} = f_{2n} [/tex]

So you showed this for n = 3.

Now you need to show that this statement being true for n=j IMPLIES that it is true for n=j+1. So assume that it's true for j, and show that then it is true for j+1.
 
  • #3
In other words, assume that
[tex]\sum_{k=1}^j f_{2k-1}= f_{2j}[/tex]
and use that to prove that
[tex]\sum_{k= 1}^{j+1} f_{2k-1}= f_{2j+2}[/tex]
 

1. What are Fibonacci Numbers?

Fibonacci numbers are a sequence of numbers in which each number is the sum of the two preceding numbers. The sequence starts with 0 and 1, and the subsequent numbers are obtained by adding the previous two numbers.

2. How are Fibonacci Numbers related to induction?

Fibonacci numbers can be proved using induction, which is a mathematical method of proving a statement for all natural numbers. The proof is done by showing that the statement is true for the first few numbers, and then showing that if it is true for any arbitrary number, it must also be true for the next number.

3. What is the formula for calculating Fibonacci Numbers?

The formula for calculating the nth Fibonacci number is F(n) = F(n-1) + F(n-2), where F(0) = 0 and F(1) = 1. This formula can also be written as F(n) = (1/sqrt(5)) * ((1+sqrt(5))/2)^n - (1/sqrt(5)) * ((1-sqrt(5))/2)^n.

4. What are some real-life applications of Fibonacci Numbers?

Fibonacci numbers can be found in many natural phenomena, such as the arrangement of leaves on a stem, the branching patterns of trees, and the spiral patterns of shells. They also have applications in mathematics, computer science, and finance.

5. What is the significance of Fibonacci Numbers?

Fibonacci numbers have been studied for centuries and have many interesting properties. They have connections to the golden ratio, which is found in many aspects of nature and art. They also have applications in various fields and have helped in the development of new mathematical concepts and theories.

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