SUMMARY
The equation $5x + 9y = n$ has solutions in non-negative integers $x$ and $y$ for all integers $n \ge 32$. The proof utilizes mathematical induction, starting with the base case of $n = 32$, where $x = 1$ and $y = 3$. The inductive step shows that if the equation holds for some integer $k \ge 32$, it also holds for $k + 1$. This is achieved by manipulating the equation to express $k + 1$ in terms of $k$ and ensuring that the conditions for $x$ and $y$ remain satisfied.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of mathematical induction
- Familiarity with linear Diophantine equations
- Knowledge of non-negative integers ($\mathbb{Z}_0^+$)
- Basic algebraic manipulation skills
NEXT STEPS
- Study the principles of mathematical induction in depth
- Explore linear Diophantine equations and their solutions
- Learn about the Frobenius coin problem for further applications
- Investigate other proofs involving non-negative integer solutions
USEFUL FOR
Mathematicians, educators, and students interested in number theory, particularly those studying linear equations and mathematical proofs.