Question: What is the remainder when x^{2n} - y^{2n} + 1 is divided by x^n + y^n, where n is a natural number? Statement I: n is odd. Statement II : n is even.

A Question is given followed by two Statements I and II. Consider the Question and the Statements. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above Question and the Statements?

  1. A. The Question can be answered by using one of the Statements alone, but cannot be answered using the other Statement alone
  2. B. The Question can be answered by using either Statement alone
  3. C. The Question can be answered by using both the Statements together, but cannot be answered using either Statement alone
  4. D. The Question can be answered even without using any of the Statements

Correct Answer: D. The Question can be answered even without using any of the Statements

Explanation

The expression x^{2n} - y^{2n} is a difference of squares and factors to (x^n - y^n)(x^n + y^n). Thus, it is always exactly divisible by x^n + y^n. The remainder of (x^{2n} - y^{2n} + 1) divided by x^n + y^n will always be 1, regardless of whether n is odd or even.

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