12. Induction
Proof by induction is a vital method for proving universally quantified statements in mathematics. The chapter introduced both regular and strong induction, demonstrating their equivalence and applicability through various proofs. Moreover, it highlighted common mistakes made during induction proof approaches, emphasizing the importance of establishing base cases and proper inductive steps.
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What we have learnt
- Proof by induction is a method to prove statements that are true for all positive integers.
- Regular and strong induction are two forms of the induction proof mechanism which are equivalent.
- The inductive step and base case are crucial for correctly applying the proof by induction.
Key Concepts
- -- Proof by Induction
- A technique for proving that a statement holds for all natural numbers, consisting of a base case and an inductive step.
- -- Base Case
- The initial step in an induction proof that establishes the truth of the statement for the first value in the domain.
- -- Inductive Step
- The part of the proof where one assumes the statement is true for an arbitrary case k and then proves it for k + 1.
- -- Strong Induction
- An alternative form of induction where the induction step assumes the statement is true for all values up to k, not just k.
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