Number theory is an important research field of mathematics. In mathematical competitions, problems of elementary number theory occur frequently. These problems use little knowledge and have many variations. They are flexible and diverse. In this book, the author introduces some basic concepts and methods in elementary number theory via problems in mathematical competitions. Readers are encouraged to try to solve the problems by themselves before they read the given solutions of examples. Only in this way can they truly appreciate the tricks of problem-solving.

Number theory is an important research field of mathematics. In mathematical competitions, problems of elementary number theory occur frequently. These problems use little knowledge and have many variations. They are flexible and diverse. In this book, the author introduces some basic concepts and methods in elementary number theory via problems in mathematical competitions. Readers are encouraged to try to solve the problems by themselves before they read the given solutions of examples. Only in this way can they truly appreciate the tricks of problem-solving.

Annotation. This text provides basic knowledge on how to solve combinatorial problems in mathematical competitions, and also introduces important solutions to combinatorial problems and some typical problems with often-used solutions.

Challenge your problem-solving aptitude in number theory with powerful problems that have concrete examples which reflect the potential and impact of theoretical results. Each chapter focuses on a fundamental concept or result, reinforced by each of the subsections, with scores of challenging problems that allow you to comprehend number theory like never before. All students and coaches wishing to excel in math competitions will benefit from this book as will mathematicians and adults who enjoy interesting mathematics.

This original work discusses mathematical methods needed by undergraduates in the United States and Canada preparing for competitions at the level of the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) and the Putnam Competition. The six-part treatment covers counting methods, number theory, inequalities and the theory of equations, metrical geometry, analysis, and number representations and logic. Includes problems with solutions plus 1,000 problems for students to finish themselves.

This introductory textbook takes a problem-solving approach to number theory, situating each concept within the framework of an example or a problem for solving. Starting with the essentials, the text covers divisibility, unique factorization, modular arithmetic and the Chinese Remainder Theorem, Diophantine equations, binomial coefficients, Fermat and Mersenne primes and other special numbers, and special sequences. Included are sections on mathematical induction and the pigeonhole principle, as well as a discussion of other number systems. By emphasizing examples and applications the authors motivate and engage readers.

This challenging problem book by renowned US Olympiad coaches, mathematics teachers, and researchers develops a multitude of problem-solving skills needed to excel in mathematical contests and in mathematical research in number theory. Offering inspiration and intellectual delight, the problems throughout the book encourage students to express their ideas in writing to explain how they conceive problems, what conjectures they make, and what conclusions they reach. Applying specific techniques and strategies, readers will acquire a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts and ideas of number theory.