Prove 2^n possibly with the binomial theorem

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on proving the equation 2^n = (n choose 0) + (n choose 1) + ... + (n choose n) for all n in natural numbers using mathematical induction. The base case is established with n=0, confirming that 2^0 equals 1, which matches the binomial coefficient for n=0. The induction hypothesis assumes the formula holds for a given n, and the goal is to prove it for n+1. Participants emphasize the relevance of the binomial theorem, suggesting that setting x=y=1 in (x+y)^n can help in the proof. The conversation highlights the combinatorial interpretation of choosing subsets from a set of n elements.
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Prove for all n\inN
2n= (\stackrel{n}{0})+(\stackrel{n}{1})+...+(\stackrel{n}{n})

So I used mathematical induction

base case: n=0 so 20=1 and (\stackrel{0}{0})=1

induction step: Let n\inN be given, assume as induction hypothesis that 2n= (\stackrel{n}{0})+(\stackrel{n}{1})+...+(\stackrel{n}{n})

I think I'm trying to prove 2n+1= (\stackrel{n+1}{0})+(\stackrel{n+1}{1})+...+(\stackrel{n+1}{n})


but I don't know how to apply the binomial theorem (if I'm even supposed to!)
 
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This is really a combinatorics problem.

Think about how many ways there are to pick a subset out of a set of n elements.
 
Office_Shredder said:
This is really a combinatorics problem.

Think about how many ways there are to pick a subset out of a set of n elements.

I don't understand... :/
 
Yes, use the binomial theorem! Let x= y= 1 in (x+ y)^n.
 
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