If X and Y are any 2 distinct integers, then prove by Mathematical Induction that X^n-Y^n is divisible by ( x-y), n belongs to N

Dear Student,
Please find below the solution to the asked query:

We have Pn: xn-yn is divisible by x-y for nNStep 1: Base CaseFor n=1xn-yn=x1-y1=x-y which is divisble by x-yHence Pn is true for n=1.Step 2: inductive hypothesisLet Pn be true for n=k i.e. xk-yk is divisible by x-y ;statementiStep 3: Inductive stepConsiderxk+1-yk+1=xk+1-xky+xky-yk+1=xk+1-xky+xky-yk+1=xk.x-xky+xky-yk.y=xkx-y+yxk-ykBy statementi, we have  xk-yk is divisible by x-yHence xkx-y+yxk-yk will be divisible by x-y As both terms are divisible by x-yHence xk+1-yk+1 is divisible by x-y.Hence Pn is true for n=k+1.Thus, P1 is true and Pk+1 is true, whenever Pk is true.  Hence, by the Principal of Mathematical Induction, Pn is true for all n  N. Hence xn-yn is divisible by x-y for nN is always true.

Hope this information will clear your doubts about this topic.

If you have any doubts just ask here on the ask and answer forum and our experts will try to help you out as soon as possible.
Regards

  • 3
What are you looking for?