Proof by mathematical induction

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around proving by mathematical induction that for all positive integers n, the expression \(10^{3n} + 13^{n+1}\) is divisible by 7. The focus is on the application of mathematical induction and techniques for manipulating expressions to demonstrate divisibility.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • The initial claim is that \(10^{3n} + 13^{n+1}\) is divisible by 7 for all positive integers n.
  • One participant suggests rewriting the constants in terms of multiples of 7 to facilitate the proof.
  • Another participant expresses uncertainty about how rewriting the constants helps in the proof process.
  • A later reply indicates that expanding the equation after rewriting the constants may clarify the divisibility.
  • One participant reflects on the usefulness of rewriting constants in terms of the divisor as a strategy for proving divisibility.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants appear to agree on the approach of rewriting constants in terms of multiples of 7, but the discussion does not reach a consensus on the specific steps needed to complete the proof.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved steps in the mathematical manipulation required to complete the proof, and the discussion does not clarify all assumptions or dependencies on definitions related to divisibility.

rock.freak667
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[SOLVED] Proof by mathematical induction

Homework Statement


Prove by mathematical induction that for all +ve integers n,[itex]10^{3n}+13^{n+1}[/itex] is divisible by 7.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Assume true for n=N.
[tex]10^{3N}+13^{N+1}=7A[/tex]

Multiply both sides by ([itex]10^3+13[/itex])

[tex](10^{3N}+13^{N+1})(10^3+13)=7A(10^3+13)[/tex]

[tex]10^{3N+3}+ 10^3(13^{N+1})+13(10^{3N})+13^{N+2}=7A(1013)[/tex]

[tex]10^{3N+3}+13^{N+2}=7A(1013)-10^3(13^{N+1})-13(10^{3N})[/tex]

Here is where I am stuck. I need to show that [itex]10^3(13^{N+1})-13(10^{3N})[/itex] is divisible by 7 now.

What I would like to get is that [itex]10^3(13^{N+1})-13(10^{3N})[/itex] can somehow be manipulated into the initial inductive hypothesis and then it will become true for n=N+1. So I need some help.
 
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the standard trick here is to write the 10^3 and the 13 in terms of multiples of 7, plus or minus 1
 
Uhm...I can write 13 as 2(7)-1 and 10^3 as 143(7)+1 but I don't see how that helps.
 
well then if you expand things out you should see what happens to the equation
 
ah..thank you scottie_000

I see it now, was so simple.So when I have to prove that some expression is divisible by a number,k, always try to rewrite any unwanted constants in terms of k?
 
like i said, it's the best trick to look for
glad to help by the way!
 

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