What is the most motivating way to introduce primitive roots

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on effectively introducing the concepts of the order of an integer modulo n and primitive roots to first-year undergraduate students in elementary number theory. Key motivating examples include the discrete Fourier transformation and algorithms related to RSA encryption, particularly factorization algorithms. The aim is to highlight the practical applications of these concepts to enhance student engagement and understanding. The discussion emphasizes the importance of presenting these topics in a way that resonates with students' interests and real-world applications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of elementary number theory concepts
  • Familiarity with modular arithmetic
  • Basic knowledge of RSA encryption and its significance
  • Awareness of the discrete Fourier transformation and its applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the applications of primitive roots in cryptography
  • Study the discrete Fourier transformation and its relevance in signal processing
  • Research factorization algorithms used in breaking RSA encryption
  • Investigate teaching strategies for motivating students in mathematics
USEFUL FOR

Educators in mathematics, particularly those teaching number theory, as well as students interested in the practical applications of mathematical concepts in cryptography and signal processing.

matqkks
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I am teaching elementary number theory to first year undergraduate students. How do introduce the order of an integer modulo n and primitive roots? How do I make this a motivating topic and are there any applications of this area? I am looking at something which will have an impact.
 
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I'm not sure whether this is motivating or not, because motivation depends a lot on personal views. An example could be the discrete Fourier transformation, or IIRC algorithms to breach an RSA coding, i.e. factorizing algorithms, or encryption in general.
 

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