Proving the Multiplication of Even Integers is a Multiple of 4: A Simple Proof

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SUMMARY

The proof that the product of any two even integers is a multiple of 4 is established through direct proof. By defining two even integers as m = 2k and n = 2j, where k and j are integers, the multiplication yields mk = (2k)(2j) = 4kj. Since kj is an integer, the product 4kj confirms that the result is indeed a multiple of 4.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of even integers and their definition (n = 2k)
  • Basic knowledge of integer multiplication
  • Familiarity with direct proof techniques in mathematics
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of even and odd integers in number theory
  • Explore direct proof methods in mathematical logic
  • Learn about the implications of integer multiplication in proofs
  • Investigate related proofs, such as the product of odd integers
USEFUL FOR

Students studying mathematics, particularly those focusing on number theory and proof techniques, as well as educators seeking to explain the properties of even integers.

nastygoalie89
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Homework Statement



Use direct proof to prove "The product of any two even integers is a multiple of 4."

Homework Equations



definition of even is n=2k

The Attempt at a Solution



My proof is going in circles/getting nowhere.

So far I have (shortened): By definition even n=2k, n=2j for some integer k
2k(2j) = 4kj = 4(kj) kj is an integer because k and j are integers
and the product of two integers is an integer
Not sure where to take it from there or if I even set the proof up correctly!
 
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nastygoalie89 said:

Homework Statement



Use direct proof to prove "The product of any two even integers is a multiple of 4."

Homework Equations



definition of even is n=2k

The Attempt at a Solution



My proof is going in circles/getting nowhere.

So far I have (shortened): By definition even n=2k, n=2j for some integer k
2k(2j) = 4kj = 4(kj) kj is an integer because k and j are integers
and the product of two integers is an integer
Not sure where to take it from there or if I even set the proof up correctly!
You have the gist of it, but you should use different letters for the two even integers, say m and n.

m = 2k, and n = 2j, for integers k an j
mk = (2k)(2j) = 4kj, which is obviously a multiple of 4.
 

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