Proving the Union of Intervals is All of N

In summary, the conversation discusses how to prove that the union of intervals [1,n] from n=1 to n=infinity is all of N. The attempt at a solution includes using induction or Archimedes, but the counterexample of 3/2 not being a natural number leads to further clarification on the definitions being used.
  • #1
fk378
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Homework Statement


Prove that the union of intervals [1,n] from n=1 to n=infinity is all of N.

The Attempt at a Solution



Do I use induction on this? Archimedes? (This question is before the section of Archimedes though). I need help on how to start it!
 
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  • #2
Counterexample:
3/2 is in the union, because it is in [1, n] for, for example, n = 2. But 3/2 is not a natural number.

Did you mean: "prove that the union contains N"?
 
  • #3
I mean that the union of all those intervals from 1 to infinity IS N.
 
  • #4
Since that seems to be false, let's go back a step.
Do you also use the definitions
[tex][1, n] = \{ x \in \mathbb R \mid 1 \le x \le n \} [/tex]
(for [itex]n \ge 1[/itex]) and
[tex]N = \{ 1, 2, 3, 4, \ldots \}[/tex]?
 

Related to Proving the Union of Intervals is All of N

1. How do you define the union of intervals?

The union of intervals is defined as the set of all numbers that are included in at least one of the given intervals. In other words, it is the combination of all the numbers contained in the intervals.

2. What is the significance of proving the union of intervals is all of N?

Proving that the union of intervals is all of N is significant as it shows that the intervals cover all the numbers in the set of natural numbers. This helps in understanding the properties and relationships between different intervals and their corresponding sets.

3. What are the steps involved in proving the union of intervals is all of N?

The steps involved in proving the union of intervals is all of N include:

  1. Defining the union of intervals
  2. Understanding the properties of natural numbers
  3. Showing that all natural numbers are included in the union of intervals
  4. Proving that any number not included in the intervals is not a natural number

4. Can you give an example of proving the union of intervals is all of N?

Yes, for example, if we have two intervals [1,5] and [6,10], the union of these intervals would be [1,10] which includes all the numbers from 1 to 10. In order to prove that this union is all of N, we can show that any natural number, such as 7, is included in the union of intervals.

5. How does proving the union of intervals is all of N relate to other mathematical concepts?

Proving that the union of intervals is all of N has connections to various mathematical concepts such as set theory, interval arithmetic, and number theory. Understanding the relationship between intervals and natural numbers can also aid in solving problems in calculus, algebra, and geometry.

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