A cybersecurity researcher is analyzing a specific encryption key property. They need to prove that the equation p2−4q=2p^2 - 4q = 2p2−4q=2 has no integer solutions for ppp and qqq.
The researcher starts a proof by contradiction as shown below:
"Suppose there exist integers ppp and qqq such that p2−4q=2p^2 - 4q = 2p2−4q=2. This implies that
p2=4q+2 p^2 = 4q + 2 p2=4q+2so p2p^2p2 is even."
Complete the proof.
Practise Edexcel A Level Maths Algebraic Methods with exam-style questions for A Level Maths. 226 questions covering 1.1 Proof by Contradiction, 1.2 Algebraic Fractions, 1.3 Partial Fractions, 1.4 Repeated Factors, and 1.5 Algebraic Division, matched to the Edexcel A Level Maths (9MA0) specification and written in Paper 1, Paper 2 and Paper 3 style. Every question includes a full worked solution and mark scheme, so you can see where marks are awarded rather than just whether you got the answer right.
