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Why does the equation ax+by=1 serve as a certificate of coprimality for integers a and b?

It serves as a certificate because if integer coefficients x and y satisfy ax+by=1, then any common divisor of a and b must divide 1. The only positive integer dividing 1 is 1 itself, proving that the greatest common divisor is 1.

Conditions

  • a and b are integers.
  • There exist integers x and y such that ax+by=1.

Reasoning, step by step

  1. Assume there are integers x and y such that ax+by=1.
  2. Let g be a common divisor of a and b.
  3. Since g divides a and b, g must divide the linear combination ax+by.
  4. Therefore, g divides 1.
  5. Conclude that the greatest common divisor of a and b is 1, meaning they are coprime.

Example

The script states: 'If integer coefficients give ax+by=1, every common divisor divides 1, so gcd(a,b)=1.'

Common misconceptions

  • Thinking that ax+by=1 implies a and b are prime numbers.
  • Believing that x and y must be positive integers.
  • Confusing coprimality with equality (a=b=1a=b=1).

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