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A supposed induction proof says, “Assume the claim is already true for \(k+1\). Therefore, the claim is true for \(k+1\).” Identify the error and state the correct inductive hypothesis.
Hints
- Check whether the argument assumes what it is trying to prove.
- Distinguish carefully between the current index and the next index.
Solution
1. The proof assumes the very statement for \(k+1\) that it is supposed to prove. This is circular reasoning.
2. The correct inductive hypothesis assumes only that the claim is true for an arbitrary \(k\).
3. That assumption must then be used to prove the claim for \(k+1\).
Answer
The argument is circular. The inductive hypothesis must assume the statement for \(k\), not for \(k+1\).
