Trying to do a non-rigorous direct proof

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the validity of a proposed non-rigorous direct proof concerning the characterization of prime numbers based on their prime factors in relation to their square roots. Participants explore the implications of the proof and its formulation, questioning its rigor and correctness.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a proof claiming that if an integer x has no prime factors less than or equal to its square root, then x must be prime.
  • Another participant references the unique prime factorization of integers and questions the implications if x is not prime and has no prime factors ≤√x.
  • A participant expresses a desire to independently work through the problem without further hints, indicating a personal approach to understanding the proof.
  • Another participant suggests a hint about expressing the smallest divisor in relation to √x, while questioning whether this constitutes a direct proof.
  • One participant critiques the initial formulation of the statement, pointing out that it is false due to the existence of the integer 1 as a counter-example.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the validity of the proof or its formulation. There are competing views regarding the rigor of the proof and the correctness of the statement about prime numbers.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations in the initial proof's formulation and the need for precise definitions, particularly concerning the treatment of the integer 1 and its status as a prime number.

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Statements:
x is an integer
x is a prime number if x doesn't consist of any prime factors ≤√x

Proof:
Since (√x + 1) * (√x + 1) > √x * √x
x must be a prime

Questions:

Whould you consider this a non-rigorous direct proof?
If not, what does it lack?
Is this a good approach trying to prove it?

The proof was meant to be like this:

Since √(x + 1) * √(x + 1) > √x * √x
x must be a prime
 
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Recall that every integer >1 has a (unique) prime factorization. Now, suppose that ##x## is not prime, and further has no prime factor ##p_1 \leq \sqrt{x}## (so that ##p_1 > \sqrt{x}##); then ##x## has factorization ##x = p_1?##. What possible values can ##?## take? (Hint: what happens if ##? > \sqrt{x}##)
 
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Please don't post any more clues just jet I am trying to figure it out it :):)
I don't know if this translates very well, but: "I´m going to sleep on it " ;)
 
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I know you said no more hints, but this hint is just too useful not to suggest.

Hint: write the smallest divisor (not counting 1 of course) as ##\sqrt{x} + ε##.

Hmm, I wonder if this counts as a direct proof, probably not.
 
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It is always a good idea to start with a proper statement of what it is you are trying to prove.

"For all positive integer x, if x has no prime factors less than or equal to its square root then x is prime"

One problem with this formulation is that it is false. The positive integer 1 is a counter-example.
 
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