Answer: natural numbers.
- A natural numbers
- B real numbers
- C rational numbers
- D irrational numbers
Correct answer: A. natural numbers
Explanation: Induction rests on the well-ordering of the natural numbers.
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.