How does the proof demonstrate that every common divisor of a and b also divides the least positive linear combination d?
Conditions
- d is the least positive linear combination of a and b.
- c is a common divisor of a and b.
Reasoning, step by step
- Recall that d can be written as d = au + bv for some integers u and v.
- Let c be any common divisor of a and b, meaning c divides a and c divides b.
- Apply the property of divisibility: if c divides a and b, then c divides any linear combination au + bv.
- Conclude that c divides d.
- Combine this with the fact that d divides a and b to show d is the greatest common divisor.
Example
The script states: 'Thus d divides both; every common divisor also divides d.'
Common misconceptions
- Thinking that only the greatest common divisor divides linear combinations.
- Believing that d must be equal to a or b to be divisible by common divisors.
- Confusing the direction of divisibility between d and its divisors.
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