Show using mathematical induction that 8^n - 1 is divisible by 7 for n=1,2,3,...

First step: n=1 we have 81 -1=7 which is divisible by 7. Assumption step: 8k-1 is divisible by 7. Induction step: Using the previous step we have that 8k-1=7x. So 8k = 7x+1. Therefore, 8k+1- 1=8(8k)-1=8(7x+1)-1 = 56x + 8 -1 = 56x+7 = 7(8x+1) which is divisible by 7. Hence, since it is true for n=1, n = k and for n=k+1 then it is true for all positive integers

MC
Answered by Mike C. Maths tutor

5646 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Differentiate ln(x)/x


Show that the line y = x - 7 does not meet the circle (x + 2)^2 + y^2 = 33.


Express cos(x) + (1/2)sin(x) in terms of a single resultant sinusoidal wave of the form Rsin(x+a)


Given that y = (3x^4 + x)^5, find dy/dx using the chain rule.


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