Using the principle of mathematical induction, prove each of the following for all n ϵ N:

(x2n – 1) - 1 is divisible by (x – y), where x 1.


To Prove:



Let us prove this question by principle of mathematical induction (PMI) for all natural numbers


Let P(n):


For n = 1


P(n) is true since


which is divisible by x - 1


Assume P(k) is true for some positive integer k , ie,


=


, where m N …(1)


We will now prove that P(k + 1) is true whenever P( k ) is true


Consider ,





[ Adding and subtracting 1 ]


[ Using 1 ]





, which is factor of ( x - 1 )


Therefore, P (k + 1) is true whenever P(k) is true


By the principle of mathematical induction, P(n) is true for all natural numbers, ie, N.


Hence proved.


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