Proving Equivalence Relation for xRy: x-y is an Integer on Real Numbers

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SUMMARY

The relation defined by xRy if and only if x - y is an integer on the set of real numbers, ℝ, is proven to be an equivalence relation. The proof consists of three parts: reflexivity is established as x - x = 0, which is an integer; symmetry is shown since if x - y is an integer, then y - x is also an integer; and transitivity is confirmed by demonstrating that if x - y and y - z are integers, then x - z is also an integer. Thus, the relation satisfies all properties of an equivalence relation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of equivalence relations in mathematics
  • Familiarity with properties of integers
  • Basic knowledge of real numbers (ℝ)
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions
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  • Explore examples of equivalence classes in different mathematical contexts
  • Learn about the implications of equivalence relations in topology
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Students of mathematics, particularly those studying abstract algebra or real analysis, as well as educators looking to reinforce concepts of equivalence relations.

Kamataat
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I answered this wrong on a test, but now I've come up with a different solution.
Problem: Prove that a relation [itex]xRy\Leftrightarrow x-y\in\mathbb{Z}[/itex] defined on [itex]\mathbb{R}[/itex] is an equivalence relation.
Solution:
1.) Reflexivity: [itex]xRx,\forall x\in\mathbb{R}[/itex]
For every [itex]x[/itex] we have [itex]x-x=0[/itex] which is an integer, so reflexivity holds.
2.) Symmetricity: [itex]xRy\Rightarrow yRx,\forall x,y\in\mathbb{R}[/itex]
If for all [itex]x,y\in\mathbb{R}[/itex] we have [itex](x-y)\in\mathbb{Z}[/itex], then [itex]y-x=-1\cdot(x-y)[/itex] (any integer multiplied by -1 is also an integer) and thus [itex](y-x)\in\mathbb{Z}[/itex] and the relation is symmetric.
3.) Transitivity: [itex]xRy\wedge yRz\Rightarrow xRz,\forall x,y,z\in\mathbb{R}[/itex]
For some [itex]x,y,z\in\mathbb{R}[/itex] we have [itex](x-y)+(y-z)=x-y+y-z=x-z[/itex] (the sum of two integers is also an integer) and thus [itex](x-z)\in\mathbb{Z}[/itex]. The relation is also transitive.
Is this it?
PS: sorry for the poor spelling
- Kamataat
 
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Yes, that is precisely what you should have done!
(And don't you just hate it when that comes right after the test!)
 
Yeah, especially since it's such an elementary thing. I'd think anyone with a (future) professional interest in maths/physics should know this stuff like the back of his/her hand! Oh well, it's happened before to me, so...

/rant

Anyway, thanks!

- Kamataat
 

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