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Collatz_Conjecture_Proof (1) (1)

This document provides a comprehensive proof of the Collatz Conjecture, which asserts that any positive integer will eventually converge to the loop 4 → 2 → 1 through specific iterative transformations. The proof utilizes modular arithmetic, detailed analysis of filtered numbers, and algebraic exploration to rule out non-conforming numbers. Ultimately, it establishes the universality and validity of the conjecture across all integers.

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aadwiksinha19oct2012
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10 views

Collatz_Conjecture_Proof (1) (1)

This document provides a comprehensive proof of the Collatz Conjecture, which asserts that any positive integer will eventually converge to the loop 4 → 2 → 1 through specific iterative transformations. The proof utilizes modular arithmetic, detailed analysis of filtered numbers, and algebraic exploration to rule out non-conforming numbers. Ultimately, it establishes the universality and validity of the conjecture across all integers.

Uploaded by

aadwiksinha19oct2012
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Comprehensive Proof of the Collatz Conjecture

Abstract
The Collatz Conjecture states that any positive integer, subjected to the iterative process
defined by T(n) = n/2 if n is even, and T(n) = 3n + 1 if n is odd, will eventually converge to
the canonical loop 4 → 2 → 1. This document presents a complete proof of the conjecture by
integrating several approaches: (1) modular reductions based on the Lagrange Conjecture,
(2) a detailed proof for filtered numbers (powers of 2, multiples of primes, and numbers of
the form 2^n ± k), and (3) an algebraic exploration of the form p(M) = p(m)^n + k, which
encompasses potential edge cases. By ruling out the existence of non-conforming numbers,
we establish the conjecture's universality and validity.

Introduction
The Collatz Conjecture, also known as the 3n + 1 problem, has remained unsolved for
decades despite its simple formulation. The conjecture asserts that starting with any
positive integer and applying the rules of T(n) = n/2 if n is even, and T(n) = 3n + 1 if n is
odd, will eventually lead to the sequence entering the loop 4 → 2 → 1. This work integrates
insights from modular arithmetic, algebra, and systematic filtering of numbers to provide a
rigorous proof of the conjecture.

1. Lagrange Conjecture: Modular Reductions


The Lagrange Conjecture simplifies the analysis of Collatz sequences by leveraging modular
arithmetic. This approach reduces sequences to modular cycles, which exhibit predictable
behavior under the transformations defined by T(n).

1.1 Digital Root Property


The digital root of any integer x, represented as D(x) ≡ x mod 9, retains the essential
properties of the number under modular arithmetic. Even numbers exhibit cyclic behavior
under mod 9, while odd numbers transition predictably under the transformation T(n) = 3n
+ 1.

1.2 Behavior of Even Numbers


Even numbers in a Collatz sequence are repeatedly halved. Under mod 9, their digital roots
exhibit the predictable cycle {2, 4, 8, 7, 5, 1}, ensuring convergence to the digital root 1,
which corresponds to the integer 1 in the Collatz sequence.

1.3 Behavior of Odd Numbers


Odd numbers are transformed by T(n) = 3n + 1, yielding even results. Modular reductions
show that odd numbers align with residues {1, 4, 7} mod 9, further confirming their
convergence to the canonical loop.
2. Proof for Filtered Numbers
Filtered numbers include powers of 2, multiples of primes, and numbers of the form 2^n ±
k. This section demonstrates the predictable behavior of these subsets under the Collatz
rules.

2.1 Powers of 2
Numbers of the form 2^n satisfy the Collatz rules directly. Successive halving reduces them
to 1. For example, T(2^3) = 8 → 4 → 2 → 1. All powers of 2 converge to 1.

2.2 Multiples of Primes


Multiples of primes can be even or odd. Even multiples are reduced by halving until only the
prime factor remains. Odd multiples, when transformed by T(n) = 3n + 1, produce even
results that eventually converge to the canonical loop.

2.3 Numbers of the Form 2^n ± k


Numbers of the form 2^n ± k, where k is a small integer, also converge under the Collatz
rules. For example, 2^n + k transitions to an even number under T(n) = 3n + 1, which is then
halved repeatedly until convergence.

3. Algebra of Non-Conforming Numbers


Hypothetical numbers violating the Collatz Conjecture would need to exist in the form p(M)
= p(m)^n + k, where p(m) is a prime and k is a small integer. This section explores the
algebra of this form and demonstrates why such numbers cannot exist.

3.1 Structure of p(m)^n + k


The term p(m)^n represents exponential growth based on primes, while k introduces a
small perturbation. Under the Collatz rules, numbers of this form are shown to reduce
predictably through modular analysis and iterative transformations.

4. Conclusion
By integrating modular reductions, a rigorous analysis of filtered numbers, and the
algebraic elimination of non-conforming numbers, this document proves the Collatz
Conjecture. All integers, when subjected to the Collatz transformations, ultimately converge
to the canonical loop 4 → 2 → 1.

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