Idempotents à la mod

Author: Sibley, Thomas Q.

Source: The College Mathematics Journal, Volume 43, Number 5, November 2012 , pp. 401-404(4)

Publisher: Mathematical Association of America

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Abstract:

An idempotent satisfies the equation x² = x. In ordinary arithmetic, this is so easy to solve it's boring. We delight the mathematical palette here, topping idempotents off with modular arithmetic and a series of exercises determining for which n there are more than two idempotents (mod n) and exactly how many there are.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4169/college.math.j.43.5.401

Publication date: 2012-11-01

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The College Mathematics Journal is designed to enhance classroom learning and stimulate thinking regarding undergraduate mathematics. CMJ publishes articles, short Classroom Capsules, problems, solutions, media reviews and other pieces. All are aimed at the college mathematics curriculum with emphasis on topics taught in the first two years.
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