Mathematica Proof of 4n-3 = n(2n-1) via Mathematical Induction

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The discussion centers around proving the equation 1 + 5 + 9 + ... + (4n - 3) = n(2n - 1) using mathematical induction. Initially, there was confusion regarding the validity of the expression 4n - 3 = n(2n - 1), which was incorrectly assumed to be true for all natural numbers. Participants clarified that the left side represents a summation rather than a simple equation. The correct approach involves proving the base case and then assuming it holds for k, followed by demonstrating it for k + 1. The conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly interpreting the problem statement to proceed with the proof.
lemurs
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ok I am really confused now topic says it all..

I am given 4n-3 = n(2n-1)

using mathemadical induction proof that is true.

P(1) both equal 1

P(k) 4k-3 = k(2k-1)
= k^2 - k

P(k+1) 4(k+1)-3 =(k+1)(2(k+1)-1)

if i simplify it all i get that
4k +1=2k^2 +3k +1

but stick at that point.

any help please.
 
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The proposition 4n-3 = n(2n-1) for all natural numbers is false; no wonder you can't prove it. Take n=5 for exemple. It would then say that 17=45
 
hmm...did u miss out the summation sign on the left side?
 
kay here is the exact question from the text.

1+5+9+...+(4n-3)=n(2n-1)

so how do i do this then...
 
1+5+9+...+(4n-3)=n(2n-1)

You do realize that it's not the same as what you said in the first post?

Assuming it's true for some k, add 4(k+1)-3 to the left and try to simplify it so that you get the corresponding term for k+1 on the right.
 
lemurs said:
kay here is the exact question from the text.

1+5+9+...+(4n-3)=n(2n-1)

so how do i do this then...

(4n-3) is not summation (4n-3) :smile: sub n=k+1 on the right and proof that its equal to k(2k-1) + (k+1)th term. i guess it should be alrite from here :biggrin:
 

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