Answer: the chosen starting value.
- A the chosen starting value
- B only ten and above
- C one hundred and above
- D positive infinity
Correct answer: A. the chosen starting value
Explanation: Induction establishes the statement for every n from the base value onward.
Mathematical induction works like a row of dominoes: proving the base case P(1) tips the first domino, and proving the inductive step (P(k) ⟹ P(k+1)) guarantees each domino knocks over the next - together these two facts guarantee ALL dominoes fall, without checking each one individually.
Concept context
A proof technique used to establish that a statement is true for every natural number, using a base case and an inductive step.