Proof about an integer being a perfect square.

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between positive integers m and n with a constraint of m^2=kn^2. It is established that all prime factors of m and n must have an even amount and any value of k that is not a perfect square will result in an odd number of prime factors. The conversation also mentions a potential proof using real numbers to show that k has to be a perfect square. Additionally, it is mentioned that there will always be a prime factor with an odd exponent in this scenario.
  • #1
cragar
2,552
3

Homework Statement


m and n are positive integers with m,n≥2
where [itex] m^2=kn^2 [/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution


we know that all prime factors of m have an even amount , their are no prime factors that
are repeated an odd number of times. The same goes for n.
if k is not a perfect square then it will have an odd number of prime factors.
and then when we multiply into n it will still be an odd number, but
m has only an even number, so k has to the square of an integer so both sides have even number of each prime factor.
 
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  • #2
if k is not a perfect square then it will have an odd number of prime factors.
6=2*3 has an even number of prime factors.
But it has at least one prime factor where the exponent is odd.

What do you want to prove? That k has to be a perfect square? You can do it that way.

If you can use real numbers in your proof: ##a^2=k## with rational a and an integer k has a solution only if k is a perfect square.
 
  • #3
what I meant to say is that there would exists a prime factor
that has at least an odd exponent
 

Related to Proof about an integer being a perfect square.

1. How do you prove that an integer is a perfect square?

To prove that an integer is a perfect square, you can take the square root of the integer and check if it is a whole number. If the square root is a whole number, then the integer is a perfect square.

2. Can you provide an example of proving an integer is a perfect square?

Yes, for example, to prove that 16 is a perfect square, you can take the square root of 16, which is 4. Since 4 is a whole number, 16 is a perfect square.

3. Is there a mathematical formula for proving an integer is a perfect square?

Yes, there is a formula for proving an integer is a perfect square: √x = n, where x is the integer and n is the square root. If n is a whole number, then x is a perfect square.

4. Can an integer be a perfect square if it has a decimal point?

No, an integer cannot be a perfect square if it has a decimal point. Perfect squares are defined as numbers that have whole number square roots.

5. How can I prove that an integer is not a perfect square?

To prove that an integer is not a perfect square, you can take the square root of the integer and check if it is a whole number. If the square root is not a whole number, then the integer is not a perfect square.

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