Suppose You Are Allowed to Give Either a Direct Proof

question 191

Essay

Suppose you are allowed to give either a direct proof or a proof by contraposition of the following: if 3n + 5 is even, then n is odd. Which type of proof would be easier to give? Explain why.

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Definitions:

Lunar Phase

The shape of the directly sunlit portion of the Moon as viewed from Earth, which changes cyclically.

Menstrual Cycle

The regular natural change that occurs in the female reproductive system that makes pregnancy possible, including the processes of ovulation and menstruation.

Industry Versus Inferiority

A stage in Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development where children, typically between ages 6 to 12, work to master skills or feel inadequate due to failure to develop these abilities.

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