Math Problem Statement
Using the direct proof, what can be assumed so that the statement below is true?
If an integer is odd and another integer is even, their product is even.
Solution
To prove the statement "If an integer is odd and another integer is even, their product is even" using a direct proof, we proceed as follows:
Restating the Given Statement:
We are tasked with proving that:
- If is an odd integer and is an even integer, then the product is even.
Definitions:
- Odd integer: An integer is odd if it can be written as , where is some integer.
- Even integer: An integer is even if it can be written as , where is some integer.
Proof:
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Assume is odd: Since is odd, by definition, we can write:
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Assume is even: Since is even, by definition, we can write:
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Multiply and : We now find the product of and : Expanding this expression:
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Factor the result: Notice that the product simplifies to: Since is an integer, we can conclude that: Therefore, is even.
Conclusion:
We have shown that the product of an odd integer and an even integer is always even. This concludes the direct proof.
Would you like more details or have any questions?
Here are five related questions to extend this concept:
- What happens if both integers are odd?
- How would you prove that the product of two even numbers is always even?
- Can an odd number ever result from multiplying two integers? Why or why not?
- How does the distributive property apply to multiplying an odd and even number?
- What are the properties of integers under multiplication involving even and odd numbers?
Tip: When proving statements about integers, using their algebraic definitions (like for even and for odd) helps break down problems systematically.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Algebra
Number Theory
Formulas
Odd integer: m = 2k + 1
Even integer: n = 2l
Product: m × n = 2(2kl + l)
Theorems
Properties of even and odd integers under multiplication
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 8-10