Absolute, mathematical proof that a hypothesised 2nd loop cannot exist in the Collatz Conjecture.

12 July 2024, Version 1
This content is an early or alternative research output and has not been peer-reviewed by Cambridge University Press at the time of posting.

Abstract

This proof shows that the necessary requirements for a 2nd loop in the Collatz cannot be met, ever. For a loop to exist all rises and falls in values between each value of x leaving and returning to itself must cancel to a net rise of 0. However I prove using simple algebra and elementary logic that if the lowest odd value of x has a net rise of 0 the 2nd lowest odd value of x cannot have a net rise of 0 so such a 2nd loop can never exist.

Keywords

Collatz conjecture
3n+1
Collatz Proof 2nd loop is impossible

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