Proving Divisibility of 5c+9d and 3c+10d by 23

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the divisibility of the expressions 5c + 9d and 3c + 10d by 23, where c and d are integers. Participants explore methods of proving the divisibility, including references to elementary number theory and Diophantine equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes that if 5c + 9d is divisible by 23, then it should be shown that 3c + 10d is also divisible by 23.
  • Another participant mentions a second solution that involves more advanced concepts from elementary number theory and hints at the use of Diophantine equations.
  • A later reply acknowledges the second solution as an alternate approach that aligns with previous contributions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants have not reached a consensus on the methods of proof, and multiple approaches are being discussed, indicating a lack of resolution.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes references to advanced mathematical concepts, which may imply limitations in understanding for those not familiar with elementary number theory or Diophantine equations.

Petek
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Let c and d be integers. Suppose that 5c + 9d is divisible by 23. Show that 3c + 10d also is divisible by 23.
 
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5c + 9d is divisible by 23
multiplying by 15
75c + 135d is divisible by 23

subtracting 69c + 115d a multiple of 23 we have

6c + 20d is divisible by by 23

or 2(3c+ 10d) is divisible by by 23

as 2 is not divisible by 23 so 3c + 10d is divisible by 23
 
@kaliprasad Thanks for your solution. In addition to yours, I found a second solution that requires more knowledge about elementary number theory. As a hint, it uses facts about Diophantine equations. I'll post again in a few days if no one finds what I was thinking of.
 
First observe that $5^{-1}\equiv -9\pmod{23}$. That is because $5\cdot -9\equiv -45 \equiv 1\pmod{23}$.

That fact that $5c+9d$ is divisible by $23$ means:
\[ 5c + 9d\equiv 0\pmod{23}\implies c\equiv 5^{-1}\cdot -9d\pmod{23}\implies c\equiv -9\cdot -9 d\equiv 81 d\equiv 12d\pmod{23} \]
Therefore:
\[ 3c + 10d \equiv 3\cdot 12d+10d\equiv 46 d\equiv 0 \pmod{23} \]
So $3c + 10d$ is also divisible by $23$.
 
The solutions of $23\mid 5c+9d$ are $c=-9+23k$ and $d=5+23m$.
Substitute in $3c+10d$ to find $3(-9+23k)+10(5+23m)=-23+23(3k+10m)$, which is divisible by $23$.
 
Last edited:
Klass' second solution is the alternate one that I had in mind. Thanks to all for their contributions.
 

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