Is (n^2+3)(n^2+15) divisible by 32 for odd positive integers n?

In summary, mathematical induction is a proof technique used to prove statements about a set of numbers, typically natural numbers. It works by breaking down a larger problem into smaller, easily provable steps and involves proving a base case and an inductive step. There are two types of mathematical induction, strong and weak, and it can be used to prove statements about various mathematical objects. However, it has limitations and can only be used to prove statements that are true for all numbers in a set.
  • #1
sushichan
12
1

Homework Statement


Prove that (n2+3)(n2+15) is divisible by 32 for all odd positive integers n.

Homework Equations


I suppose we are supposed to use mathematical induction since it is in that chapter, but the following questions specifically state that we should use induction but this question doesn't.

The Attempt at a Solution


n=1
(1+3)(1+15)=64=2*32​
n=k
(k2+3)(k2+15)=32A, A∈ℝ​
n=k+1
⇒((k+2)2+3)((k+2)2+15)
= (k2+3)(k2+15) + 8k3+24k2+104k+88
= 32A + 8(k3+3k2+13k+11)​
 
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  • #2
sushichan said:
A∈ℝ
You don't mean that.
sushichan said:
n=k+1
Think about that choice again. Note that it says:
sushichan said:
all odd positive integers n
 

Related to Is (n^2+3)(n^2+15) divisible by 32 for odd positive integers n?

1. What is mathematical induction?

Mathematical induction is a proof technique used to prove statements about a set of numbers, typically natural numbers. It involves proving a base case and then proving that if the statement holds for one number, it also holds for the next number.

2. How does mathematical induction work?

Mathematical induction works by breaking down a larger problem into smaller, easily provable steps. The base case serves as the starting point for the proof, and then the inductive step shows that if the statement holds for one number, it also holds for the next number. This process is repeated until the desired statement is proven for all numbers in the set.

3. What is the difference between strong and weak induction?

In strong induction, the inductive step assumes that the statement holds for all previous numbers, not just the previous number. This allows for a more powerful proof, but it also requires a stronger base case. In weak induction, the inductive step only assumes that the statement holds for the previous number.

4. What types of statements can be proven using mathematical induction?

Mathematical induction is typically used to prove statements about natural numbers, such as properties of sequences or series. However, it can also be applied to prove statements about other mathematical objects, such as graphs or sets.

5. Are there any limitations to mathematical induction?

Mathematical induction can only be used to prove statements that are true for all numbers in a set. It cannot be used to prove statements that are only true for certain numbers. Additionally, the base case and inductive step must be clearly defined and easily provable, otherwise the proof may not be valid.

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