What Implications Arise from Modifying the Division Theorem in Number Theory?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the implications of modifying the standard division theorem in number theory, specifically the equation a = bq + r, where 0 <= r < b. The modification introduces a new remainder r' defined as r' = b - r, leading to the equation a = b(q + 1) - r'. The participants emphasize that using the original definition is preferable due to its alignment with the well-ordering principle and the established proofs in number theory, which rely on the standard definition for consistency and clarity in congruence results.

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  • Understanding of the standard division theorem in number theory
  • Familiarity with the well-ordering principle
  • Basic knowledge of congruences and modular arithmetic
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Mathematicians, educators, and students interested in number theory, particularly those exploring the foundations of division and modular arithmetic.

Kartik.
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Well the standard division theorem says,

a = bq +r
where,
0 <= r < b
after that we were introduced with r = b - r[itex]\acute{}[/itex]
r[itex]\acute{}[/itex] having the same domain as that of r
after that the theorem changes to
a = b(q+1) - r[itex]\acute{}[/itex]

Solving it with r[itex]\acute{}[/itex]= b-r, gives us the standard equation, but what does it imply?

also two conditions in r and r[itex]\acute{}[/itex] where given -
r>=1/2b and r[itex]\acute{}[/itex]<=1/2b
and then defining Q and Ra = bQ +R where |R| <=1/2b

What does all this mean?
Examples, please?
 
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Hey Kartik.

It just means you have a different definition for the quotient and the remainder.

It's better to use the original definition, and the reason for this is that all of the rigorous proofs are based on what is known as the well ordering principle and for the normal definition that is used, the proofs are standardized.

The other thing is that the natural definition of the modulus makes more sense when its defined with the normal bq + r instead of your own, because all the congruence results and arithmetic are naturally suited to this definition.

Is there any reason why you wish to use your definition over the standard one?
 

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