Prove by induction that f(n) = 2^(k + 2) + 3^(3k + 1) is divisible by 7 for all positive n.

First we establish our base case: f(0) = 22 + 31 = 4 + 3 = 7, so clearly f(0) is divisible by 7.Now. by the inductive hypothesis. we assume that f(k) is divisible by 7, and attempt to show that this implies f(k+1) is also divisible by 7.f(k + 1) = 2k + 3 + 32(k + 1) + 1 = 2k + 3 + 32k + 3 = 2 * 2k + 2 + 9 * 32k + 1 So f(k + 1) mod 7 === 2 * 2k + 2 + 2 * 32k + 1 (since 9 mod 7 === 2). So f(k + 1) mod 7 === 2 * (2k + 2 + 32k + 1) = 2 * f(k).These for f(k + 1) mod 7 === 0, hence f(k + 1) is divisible by 7 if f(k) is divisible by 7, hence f(n) is divisibile by 7 for all n >= 0.

WP
Answered by William P. Further Mathematics tutor

2991 Views

See similar Further Mathematics A Level tutors

Related Further Mathematics A Level answers

All answers ▸

What does it mean if two matrices are said to be commutative?


Find the square roots of 2 + isqrt(5)


Find the four roots of the equation z^4 = + 8(sqrt(3) + i), in the form z = r*e^(i*theta). Draw the roots on an argand diagram.


The curve C has polar equation 'r = 3a(1 + cos(x)). The tangent to C at point A is parallel to the initial line. Find the co-ordinates of A. 0<x<pi


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning