Constructing a Perfect Set in R Without Rational Numbers

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In summary, constructing a nonempty perfect set in R that contains no rational numbers can be achieved by modifying the construction of the Cantor set to exclude rational numbers at each step while carefully choosing the end points of each segment to ensure the set remains closed. This can be a tricky process, but it is possible.
  • #1
AbelAkil
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Homework Statement


Is there any nonempty perfect set in R which contains no rational number?


Homework Equations


A set E is perfect iff E is closed and every point of E is a limit point of E


The Attempt at a Solution


We should avoid rational numbers to become limit points, so we have to kick out countable segments with rational numbers...But how can I construct the set so that the remaining irrational numbers are still limit points and no isolated point exists?
 
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  • #3
micromass said:
The construction of such a set is quite tricky. You will have to modify the construction of the Cantor set in such a way that it misses the rationals. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smith–Volterra–Cantor_set for general information about such a set.

How to modify it? Rational numbers are dense in R...
 
  • #4
Throw out a rational number at each step of the construction.
 
  • #5
micromass said:
Throw out a rational number at each step of the construction.
yes, you are right...sorry, I made a mistake in my proof... but now I can understand it...thank U very much...
 
  • #6
micromass said:
Throw out a rational number at each step of the construction.
We should choose the end points of each segments carefully to make sure that the end points are all irrational numbers and the set is still closed!
 

Related to Constructing a Perfect Set in R Without Rational Numbers

What is a perfect set?

A perfect set is a set of real numbers that has the same cardinality as the set of all real numbers, and is also closed and uncountable.

Why is the problem about perfect set important?

The problem about perfect set is important because it helps us understand the properties and behavior of infinite sets, which have many applications in mathematics and other fields of science.

What is the significance of the perfect set problem in mathematics?

The perfect set problem is significant in mathematics because it is closely related to other important concepts such as topology, measure theory, and set theory. It also has connections to other famous mathematical problems, such as the Continuum Hypothesis.

Has the perfect set problem been solved?

No, the perfect set problem has not been solved. It remains an open problem in mathematics, and many mathematicians continue to work on finding a solution.

What are some potential solutions or approaches to the perfect set problem?

Some proposed solutions or approaches to the perfect set problem include the use of descriptive set theory, forcing, and large cardinals. However, none of these approaches have yet yielded a complete solution to the problem.

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