How to Find a K for Prime-Free Recursive Sequences?

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In summary, for each of the two recursive sequences given, there exists a number K>0 such that the expression {S_n}^2 + \bold{K} will always result in a composite number. To solve these problems, one must consider each series separately and find a second order equation in S_j and S_(j+1) that gives a constant for all j. This equation must also give a second constant for the other series. Additionally, the condition of K>0 must be met.
  • #1
ramsey2879
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For each the following recursive sequences,
find a number K>0 such that [tex]{S_n}^2[/tex] + [tex]\bold{K}[/tex] is always composite.

1) [tex]S_0 = 10[/tex], [tex]S_1 = 11[/tex], [tex]S_n = 6S_{\left(n-1\right)}[/tex] - [tex]S_{\left(n-2\right)}[/tex]

2) [tex]S_0 = 14[/tex], [tex]S_1 = 17[/tex], [tex]S_n = 6S_{\left(n-1\right)}[/tex] - [tex]S_{\left(n-2\right)}[/tex]

Hint. Each problem has a separate K. Considering one of the series only, if you can find a second order equation in S_j and S_(j+1) that gives a constant for all j, and this equation also gives a second constant for the other series too, I would say that you are very near to solving these problems.
 
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  • #2
Uh, K = 0?

Sn² + K
= Sn² + 0
= Sn²
= (Sn)(Sn)

I'm sure that was more steps than was required to convince you, but a square number is obviously always composite. Maybe you meant simply that Sn is always composite, or maybe S(n²) as opposed to (Sn)²?
 
  • #3
One more condition! K>0! Sorry
 

1. What is a prime-free sequence?

A prime-free sequence is a sequence of positive integers in which none of the numbers are prime. In other words, every number in the sequence is divisible by at least one other number in the sequence.

2. Why are prime-free sequences important in mathematics?

Prime-free sequences are important because they can provide insight into the distribution and properties of prime numbers. They are also used in cryptography and number theory.

3. How are prime-free sequences generated?

There are various methods for generating prime-free sequences, such as using sieving algorithms or constructing them using modular arithmetic. However, there is no known general formula for generating all prime-free sequences.

4. Are there any known properties of prime-free sequences?

Yes, there are several known properties of prime-free sequences. For example, the number of terms in a prime-free sequence is always finite, and the sequence is always non-decreasing.

5. What is the significance of prime-free sequence problems in computer science?

Prime-free sequence problems have practical applications in computer science, such as in designing efficient algorithms for prime factorization and generating random numbers. They also have theoretical importance in complexity theory and the study of NP-complete problems.

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