Math Problem Statement
Question15. Which of the following statements is true: (7 pts) (a) A number k divides the sum of three consecutive integers n, n + 1, and n + 2 if and only if it divides the middle integer n + 1. (b) An integer n is divisible by 6 if and only if it is divisible by 3. (c) For all integers a,b,and c, a|(bc) if and only if a | b and a | c. (d) For all integers a,b,and c, a|(b+c) if and only if a | b and a | c. (e) If r and s are integers, then r | s if and only if r 2 | s 2 .
Solution
Let's analyze each statement carefully to determine which is true:
(a) A number divides the sum of three consecutive integers if and only if it divides the middle integer .
- The sum of three consecutive integers is: This means the sum is always divisible by 3. Therefore, dividing does not necessarily imply it divides , because might include a factor of 3.
- This is false.
(b) An integer is divisible by 6 if and only if it is divisible by 3.
- For a number to be divisible by 6, it must be divisible by both 2 and 3. Divisibility by 3 alone is not sufficient.
- This is false.
(c) For all integers and , if and only if and .
- Counterexample: Let , , and . Here, (true), but .
- This is false.
(d) For all integers and , if and only if and .
- If and , then and for some integers and . Adding them: so .
- Conversely, does not imply and , since a single dividing doesn't guarantee separate divisibility.
- This is false.
(e) If and are integers, then if and only if .
- If , then , so , meaning .
- Conversely, if , then . Since the square of a number is divisible by another square, must divide .
- This is true.
Answer: (e) is the correct statement.
Do you want me to expand any explanation or clarify? Here are related questions to deepen your understanding:
- What are the divisibility rules for integers?
- Can you provide another counterexample for statement (c)?
- How does the distributive property help prove statement (d)?
- Why does statement (b) fail when is odd?
- What other properties of divisors can we infer from statement (e)?
Tip: When analyzing "if and only if" statements, always check both directions to confirm equivalence.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Divisibility
Properties of Integers
Logical Equivalence
Formulas
Sum of three consecutive integers: n + (n+1) + (n+2) = 3(n+1)
Theorems
If a | b and a | c, then a | (b+c)
If r | s, then r^2 | s^2
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 9-12
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