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

2n+1 will always be an odd number (e.g. if n is equal to 3 the answer would be 7, an odd number) So, we square 2n+1 and write this as (2n+1)2 2n +12n 4n2 2n+1 2n 1Then multiple out the brackets to give 4n2+4n+1 We then put the equation into brackets again 4(n2 + n) +1 The 4(n2 + n) term will aways be a multiple of 4Therefore we have proved that:(2n+1)2 = 4(n2 + n) +1 and therefore have proved that the square of an odd number is always 1 more than a multiple of 4.


Answered by Maths tutor

2966 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Expand (x+6)(x-3)


What is the point of intersection of two lines, and how would I find it?


Solve the equation 3x^(2)-7x+3 giving your answer to three significant figures.


Two shops have deals for purchasing pens: "3 for £2" and "5 for £3" . Mr. Papadopoulos wants to buy 30 pens for his class in school, which deal should he use if he wants to spend the least amount of money possible, and how much will he spend?


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