Math Problem Statement
Prove that the product of three consecutive even numbers is a multiple of 24
Solution
To prove that the product of three consecutive even numbers is always a multiple of 24, let us break this into logical steps.
1. Representation of Consecutive Even Numbers
Let the three consecutive even numbers be represented as: where is an even integer.
2. Expression for the Product
The product of these three numbers is:
3. Multiple of 8
Since is even, we can write , where is an integer. Substituting into the product: Factor out 2 from each term: Thus, is always divisible by .
4. Multiple of 3
Among , , and , one of these numbers is always divisible by . This is because any three consecutive integers contain exactly one multiple of . Hence, is divisible by .
5. Conclusion: Multiple of 24
Since is divisible by both and , it is divisible by .
Therefore, the product of three consecutive even numbers is always a multiple of .
Would you like further examples or clarifications? Here are some related questions to explore:
- Can we extend this proof to three consecutive odd numbers for other divisors?
- How would this proof change if we used consecutive integers instead of even numbers?
- What are the divisors of the product of four consecutive even numbers?
- How can we generalize this proof to -consecutive numbers and their product?
- Can we use modular arithmetic to prove the divisibility in this case?
Tip: When proving divisibility, always check both prime factors and their powers to verify the result fully!
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Number Theory
Divisibility
Arithmetic Sequences
Formulas
Product of three consecutive even numbers: n(n+2)(n+4)
Theorems
Divisibility Rules
Properties of Even Numbers
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 8-10
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