Example 35([31.3]) Find all integers such that is an integer.
Solution
To solve this problem, in addition to the exponential properties and other properties given above, the following conclusion is also required: Let , then (a) , but does not divide ; (b) if and only if is odd. This problem can be considered the most difficult in the IMO, with only one solution method, which seems unsuitable as a competition problem. Below, we only provide the solution steps, and readers are encouraged to complete the rigorous solving process on their own.
(i) There must be , let be the smallest positive integer such that , from this we deduce that , and thus , and its prime factors are . This implies . From this, we deduce , hence . This is impossible.
(iv) Only . Therefore, .
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