Question

If a is an integer and n is a positive integer, we define a mod n to be the remainder when a is divided by n. The integer n is called the __________

Answer 1

Divisor

Explanation:

Given

`a\ mod\ n`

Required

What does n represents

In arithmetic, the number that divides another is referred to as divisor;

Take for instance;

`5\ mod\ 3 = 2`

This implies that when 5 is divided by 3, the remainder is 2

The bold text (divided by 3) means that 3 is the divisor of 5;

When compared to
`a\ mod\ n`

We have that

n = 3

Reason being that, n and 3 are in the same position base on order of appearance;

Hence, n represents the divisor