Classic olympiad problem · Algebra
Prove that if x + dfrac1x is an integer, then x^n + dfrac1x^n is an…
Prove that if is an integer, then is an integer for every positive integer .
This is a proof problem — the answer is an argument, not a number. The solution is deliberately not posted here: reading a solution you didn't fight for teaches almost nothing. On Lemma you attempt it cold, take one of the 3 progressive hints only when genuinely stuck, then compare your proof against a full walkthrough and mark yourself with the same rubric a competition coordinator would use.
Train it on Lemma
This problem sits in the Olympiad Set — 81 real competition problems with progressive hints, full walkthroughs and marking rubrics. 78 lessons, 624 curated problems and unlimited generated practice at six difficulties. Free to start — no card, no trial clock.
Find your levelMore Algebra problems
- IMO 1964, Problem 2IMO 1964, Problem 2 · difficulty 5/6
- Functional equationClassic (functional equation) · difficulty 4/6
- AM–GMClassic (AM–GM) · difficulty 3/6
- All 81 problems →