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How do you perform each step of the subtraction version of the Euclidean algorithm?

To perform each step, you keep the smaller number and subtract it from the larger number. You then replace the larger number with the resulting difference and repeat the process until the desired stopping value is reached.

Conditions

  • The video explicitly applies this to the pair 12 and 8.
  • It assumes one chooses the larger and smaller number at each step.

Reasoning, step by step

  1. Identify the larger and smaller numbers in the current pair.
  2. Subtract the smaller number from the larger number.
  3. Keep the smaller number and pair it with the new difference.
  4. Repeat the process until the stopping condition is met.

Example

For the pair 12 and 8, the first step is 12−8=412 - 8 = 4. The new pair becomes 8 and 4. The next step is 8−4=48 - 4 = 4.

Common misconceptions

  • Subtracting the larger number from the smaller number.
  • Forgetting to keep the smaller number for the next step.

Watch the explanation

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Answers are generated from source material and independently checked. Consult the original video or creator if something is unclear.