Prove that the square of an odd number is always 1 more than a multiple of 4

Let n be any whole number. Any odd number can be written as 2n+1. Any odd number squared is therefore (2n+2)2=2n2n+22n+1=4n2+4n+1=4(n2+n)+1. n2+n is a whole number, so 4(n2+1) is a multiple of 4. Therefore, any odd number squared is 1 more than a multiple of 4.

Answered by Maths tutor

2544 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Calculate 64^2/3. (No calculator)


Make x the subject of the equation y=(2(1+x))/(3x-1)


What term comes next in the sequence: 5, 8, 11, 14


Why do I have to study maths?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning