What is the proof for n|φ(a^n-1)?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the statement that \( n | \phi(a^n - 1) \) for every integer \( a \geq 2 \) and any positive integer \( n \). The conversation includes various mathematical concepts and proofs related to group theory and number theory.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire about the conditions for the binary operation in the context of proving properties of the set \( S \), questioning whether it is associative or has inverses.
  • There are requests for clarification on the terms "left identity" and "right transitive," indicating a need for definitions and axioms related to the operation.
  • One participant suggests using the formula for \( \phi(n) \) in the proof, specifically mentioning its factorization in terms of prime powers.
  • Another participant proposes proving the theorem by induction, although the details of this approach are not fully elaborated.
  • Several posts express uncertainty about how to begin the proof for \( n | \phi(a^n - 1) \), indicating that participants are at different stages of understanding the problem.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the proof or the definitions involved, with multiple viewpoints and questions remaining unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding missing assumptions about the operation on set \( S \) and the definitions of terms used, which could affect the clarity of the arguments presented.

koukou
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#1 a) If ex = x for some elements e,x belong to S, we say e is a left identity for x; similarly, if xe = x we say e is a right identity for x. Prove that an element is a left identity for one element of S if and only if it is a left identity for every element of S. Let S be a non-empty set with a binary operation which is associative and both left and right transitive

b) Prove that S has a unique identity element

c) Deduce that S is a group under the given binary operation



#2.Prove that n|φ(a^n-1) for every integer a≥2 and any positive integer n
 
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How do you start? For (a), the second implication is immediate. Do you have other conditions for the operation? Is it associative? Do you have inverses? Is S the domain of a group?
 
honestrosewater said:
How do you start? For (a), the second implication is immediate. Do you have other conditions for the operation? Is it associative? Do you have inverses? Is S the domain of a group?

there exists a such that and xs1=y s2x=y..
 
koukou said:
there exists a such that and xs1=y s2x=y..
Part of your post got lost. Is this an axiom?

I missed your edit. What does it mean to be left and right transitive?
 
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honestrosewater said:
Part of your post got lost. Is this an axiom?

I missed your edit. What does it mean to be left and right transitive?

thank you
i have done this one

but still no idea to do this one


Prove that n|φ(a^n-1) for every integer a≥2 and any positive integer n
 
koukou said:
Prove that n|φ(a^n-1) for every integer a≥2 and any positive integer n
What does that formula say? What do "|", "φ", and "φ(x)" mean?
 
For 2, use the fact that:
φ(n)=(p1^k1-p1^(k1-1))...(pr^kr-pr^kr+1)
for n= p1^k1 ... pr^kr
for pi primes, and because a^n-1=(a-1)(a^n-1+...+1)
Now prove this theorem by induction.
 

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