What is 1^21 + 2^21 + 3^21 + ......... + 18^21 in mode 19?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of the sum \(1^{21} + 2^{21} + 3^{21} + \ldots + 18^{21}\) modulo 19. Participants explore various methods to simplify the computation, including the application of Fermat's little theorem and alternative observations regarding cubic sums.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests calculating each term modulo 19 individually but seeks a more efficient method.
  • Another participant applies Fermat's little theorem, concluding that \(1^{21} + \cdots + 18^{21} \equiv 0 \pmod{19}\) by relating it to the sum of cubes modulo 19.
  • Several participants question the reasoning behind the equivalence of the sum of cubes to the square of the sum of integers from 1 to 18 modulo 19.
  • One participant introduces Nicomachus's theorem as a potential alternative approach to the problem.
  • Another participant observes that the sum of cubes can be expressed in terms of negative integers, leading to a conclusion of equivalence to 0 modulo 19.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the reasoning behind certain mathematical equivalences and the application of theorems. There is no consensus on the best method to solve the problem, and multiple approaches are discussed.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the implications of modular arithmetic and the specific theorems referenced, indicating potential limitations in understanding the connections between the different mathematical concepts presented.

ketanco
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what is 1^21 + 2^21 + 3^21 + ... + 18^21 in mode 19?

i can only think about individually calculating equivalents in mode 19 and then adding them up but there must be a better way then finding equivalents of exponentials of numbers from to 1 to 18, as this question is expected to be solved in around 2 minutes or less...
 
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By Fermat’s little theorem, $1^{18},2^{18},\ldots,18^{18}\equiv1\pmod{19}$. Hence
$$\begin{array}{rcl}1^{21}+\cdots+18^{21} &\equiv& 1^3+\cdots+18^3\pmod{19} \\\\ {} &=& (1+\cdots+18)^2\pmod{19} \\\\ {} &=& \left(\dfrac{18}2\cdot19\right)^2\pmod{19} \\\\ {} &\equiv& 0\pmod{19}.\end{array}$$
 
Hey Olinguito, how does it follow that:
Olinguito said:
$$1^3+\cdots+18^3\pmod{19} = (1+\cdots+18)^2\pmod{19}$$

(Wondering)
 
Klaas van Aarsen said:
Hey Olinguito, how does it follow that:

$1^3+\cdots+18^3\pmod{19} = (1+\cdots+18)^2\pmod{19}$

(Wondering)


Doesn’t $a=b$ imply $a\pmod n=b\pmod n$ (taking the modulus to be between $0$ and $n-1$)? (Wink)
 
Last edited:
Olinguito said:
Doesn’t $a=b$ imply $a\pmod n=b\pmod n$ (taking the modulus to be between $0$ and $n-1$)? (Wink)


After staring at the following picture long enough, I finally realized why $a=b$. (Bandit)
480px-Nicomachus_theorem_3D.svg.png

I think it's a different theorem though (Nicomachus's theorem).

Btw, couldn't we instead observe that:
$$1^3+2^3+...+17^3+18^3\equiv 1^3+2^3+...+(-2)^3+(-1)^3 \equiv 0 \pmod{19}$$
(Wondering)
 
Klaas van Aarsen said:
Btw, couldn't we instead observe that:
$$1^3+2^3+...+17^3+18^3\equiv 1^3+2^3+...+(-2)^3+(-1)^3 \equiv 0 \pmod{19}$$
(Wondering)

That’s an excellent observation!
love0029.gif
 
Klaas van Aarsen said:
After staring at the following picture long enough, I finally realized why $a=b$. (Bandit)

I think it's a different theorem though (Nicomachus's theorem).

Btw, couldn't we instead observe that:
$$1^3+2^3+...+17^3+18^3\equiv 1^3+2^3+...+(-2)^3+(-1)^3 \equiv 0 \pmod{19}$$
(Wondering)

yes this is how they xpected us to solve i think... this must be the answer. thanks
 

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