MathDB
Nice divisibility in an odd ring

Source: RMO 2008 - District Round - 12th grade - Problem 3

March 5, 2008
group theoryabstract algebrasuperior algebrasuperior algebra unsolved

Problem Statement

Let A A be a commutative unitary ring with an odd number of elements. Prove that the number of solutions of the equation x^2 \equal{} x (in A A) divides the number of invertible elements of A A.