Modular arithmetic with a variable modulus and fractions

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving the congruence equation x^2 / 3 + 11 ≡ 5 (mod x). Participants confirmed that 3 and 6 are valid solutions through trial and error. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the conditions under which fractions are defined in modular arithmetic, specifically noting that a denominator must be coprime to the modulus for it to be valid. The example of 1/3 (6) being undefined due to the lack of a solution for 3x ≡ 1 (6) contrasts with 6/15 (9), which is valid because the highest common factor (HCF) allows for cancellation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of modular arithmetic principles
  • Familiarity with congruences and their properties
  • Knowledge of prime numbers and coprimality
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of modular inverses and their applications
  • Explore the concept of congruences involving fractions in modular arithmetic
  • Learn about the Chinese Remainder Theorem for solving systems of congruences
  • Investigate the implications of highest common factors in modular equations
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Mathematicians, students studying number theory, and anyone interested in advanced modular arithmetic concepts will benefit from this discussion.

Floating Info
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(This is my first post.)

I can't seem to find a good way of solving this sort of congruence for x:

x^2 / 3 + 11 \equiv 5 (mod x)

Through trial and error it appears at least 3 and 6 are answers, but how can you reach them regularly? (I'm heard conflicting things about fractions being defined for modular arithmetic. It might be that this isn't even a createable congruence.)
 
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Floating Info said:
I'm heard conflicting things about fractions being defined for modular arithmetic.
If the denominator is prime to the base then it's always defined. Otherwise, only when the HCF of denominator and base happens to divide the numerator in the ordinary way:
1/3 (6) does not exist because there is no number x s.t. 3x\equiv1 (6).
6/15 (9) is ok because HCF(15,9) = 3, which cancels to produce 2/5 (9) = 4.
Floating Info said:
x^2 / 3 + 11 \equiv 5 (mod x)
Just multiply it out and see what you get.
 

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