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(1-x)(1-x^2)... [particular case of pentagonal number thm.]

Source: Chinese TST 2007 4th quiz P2

March 26, 2007
algebrapolynomialEulernumber theory unsolvednumber theory

Problem Statement

After multiplying out and simplifying polynomial (x \minus{} 1)(x^2 \minus{} 1)(x^3 \minus{} 1)\cdots(x^{2007} \minus{} 1), getting rid of all terms whose powers are greater than 2007, 2007, we acquire a new polynomial f(x). f(x). Find its degree and the coefficient of the term having the highest power. Find the degree of f(x) \equal{} (1 \minus{} x)(1 \minus{} x^{2})...(1 \minus{} x^{2007}) (mod (mod x2008). x^{2008}).