Proof of a lemma of BÉZOUT’S THEOREM

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The discussion centers on a lemma of Bézout's Theorem, specifically stating that if \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\) are positive integers with \(\text{gcd}(a, b) = 1\) and \(a \mid bc\), then \(a \mid c\). The user explores this lemma through numerical examples, such as \(a=5\), \(b=3\), and \(c=10\), confirming that \(5 \mid 30\) and \(5 \mid 10\) are both true. The user initially expresses confusion regarding the implications of the equation \(bc/a = s\) and the relationship between \(b/s\) and \(c\), but ultimately resolves their misunderstanding.

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SamitC
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Hi,
One silly thing is bothering me. As per one lemma, If a, b, and c are positive integers such that gcd(a, b) = 1 and a | bc, then a | c. This is intuitively obvious. i.e.
Since GCD is 1 'a' does not divide 'b'. Now, 'a' divides 'bc' so, 'a' divides 'c'. Proved.

What is bothering me is : suppose bc/a = s. Then as = bc. Thus a = (b/s) c ... (1)
Now, if c/a is an integer so is s/b. Which means b/s is not an integer. Putting this in (1) - how 'a' divides 'c'?
Thanks in advance
 
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SamitC said:
Which means b/s is not an integer.
So what? Where does b/s appear?

Maybe it is easier to understand with a numerical example:
a=5, b=3, c=10
5 | 30 is true, 5 | 10 is true as well.
bc/a = s gives us s = 30/5 = 6.
s/b=2, and b/s=1/2 is not an integer. So what?
 
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mfb said:
So what? Where does b/s appear?

Maybe it is easier to understand with a numerical example:
a=5, b=3, c=10
5 | 30 is true, 5 | 10 is true as well.
bc/a = s gives us s = 30/5 = 6.
s/b=2, and b/s=1/2 is not an integer. So what?

Thanks for your reply.
Sorry...don't know why i asked this question... a (s/b) = c ...i don't know why I was thinking the other way.
Anyways...thanks
 

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