Free TMUA sample

Identifying Errors in Proofs

Topic practice · Paper 2 · Foundation

This free ExamAlly page is a TMUA identifying errors in proofs practice question for students preparing for the TMUA (Test of Mathematics for University Admission). Use it to check your understanding of Identifying Errors in Proofs, attempt every option under light time pressure, then read the full worked solution.

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A student attempts to prove: If n2n^2 is even, then nn is even.

Argument:

  1. If nn is even, then n2n^2 is even. Therefore, when n2n^2 is even, nn must be even.
  2. Suppose n2=2kn^2=2k for some integer kk. Dividing by nn gives n=2knn=\dfrac{2k}{n}, so nn is even because the right-hand side has a factor of 22.
  3. By definition, an integer is even if it is a multiple of 44. Hence nn is even.

Consider the following claims about the argument above:
I. Line 1 confuses a necessary condition with a sufficient one: from "if nn is even then n2n^2 is even" it infers nn is even when n2n^2 is even (affirming the consequent).
II. Line 2 misuses algebra and the definition of even: from n=2knn=\dfrac{2k}{n} it concludes nn is even by "seeing a factor 2", but k/nk/n need not be an integer.
III. Line 3 misstates the definition of even: being a multiple of 44 is sufficient for being even but is not the definition.

Which of I–III correctly identify errors concerning necessary/sufficient conditions or related definitions?