This is part of the QCE Specialist Maths course under Unit 3: Mathematical induction, and further vectors, matrices and complex numbers.
In this post we look at Topic 1: Proof by mathematical induction and we will cover how to understand the nature of inductive proof including the ‘initial statement’ and inductive step.
Mathematical induction is used as a general method to see if proofs or equations are true for a set of numbers in a quick way.
Mathematical induction has the following steps:
- State any assumptions
- Prove the equation true for k=1 (or whatever the starting number is)
- Prove true for k+1
- Finally, prove true all integers in the set.
- A concluding statement stating if the proof was true or not.
Introduction to Mathematical Induction
