CS 173: Discrete Structures, Spring 2014

Homework 1
This homework contains 2 problems worth a total of 34 points. It is due on Wednesday,
February 5th, at 11:45pm
Your homework will be submitted by typing directly into submission boxes on moodle. Your
submissions should be written in good style, using latex equation mode for questions that
cant be written nicely in plain text. See the homework web page or our moodle page for
information about latex equation mode.
When the instructions for a problem specify a particular proof technique, you must use that
method. Even if the proof can be done in other ways, we would like you to practice using
this approach.
Remember to introduce your variables and assumptions at the start of the proof, put your
steps in logical order, use connector words and good formatting, and briefly justify key harder
steps.

1. Contraposition and Cases [24 points]

Consider the following claim:
Suppose that m n is even, where m and n are integers. Then, either m
and n are both odd, or m and n are both even.
(a) Prove this claim by proving its contrapositive. Clearly state the contrapositive
within your proof. (12 points)
(b) Prove the converse of the claim using proof by cases. Make sure to state clearly
what you are trying to prove. (12 points)
2. Proof or Disproof with Rational Numbers [10 points]
Determine whether the following claim is correct:
If a and b are rational numbers, then

a
b

is also a rational number.

If correct, prove the claim. If incorrect, disprove the claim using a counter-example.
Any proof or disproof should make use of the definition of rational numbers. If providing a counter-example, make sure to explain why your choices of a and b are valid
rational numbers and why ab is not.