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

In summary, the problem was to prove that the relation xRy\Leftrightarrow x-y\in\mathbb{Z} defined on \mathbb{R} is an equivalence relation. The solution involved showing reflexivity, symmetry, and transitivity. The solution was provided, along with a comment about the frustration of getting it wrong on a test.
  • #1
Kamataat
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0
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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  • #2
Yes, that is precisely what you should have done!
(And don't you just hate it when that comes right after the test!)
 
  • #3
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
 

1. What is an equivalence relation?

An equivalence relation is a mathematical concept that describes a relationship between two objects or elements in a set. It has three main properties: reflexivity, symmetry, and transitivity.

2. How do you prove equivalence relation for xRy where x-y is an integer on real numbers?

To prove that xRy is an equivalence relation, you must show that it satisfies the three main properties: reflexivity, symmetry, and transitivity. For reflexivity, you can show that xRx is always true since x-x=0, which is an integer. For symmetry, you can show that if xRy is true, then yRx is also true since y-x is also an integer. For transitivity, you can show that if xRy and yRz are true, then xRz is also true since the sum of two integers is still an integer.

3. What is the importance of proving equivalence relation?

Proving equivalence relation is important in mathematics because it helps establish a relationship between objects or elements in a set. It allows for easier organization and understanding of complex concepts, and can also be used to prove theorems and solve problems.

4. Can you give an example of an equivalence relation for xRy where x-y is an integer on real numbers?

An example of an equivalence relation for xRy where x-y is an integer on real numbers is the relation "is congruent to" (denoted by ≡) on the set of integers. For any two integers, a and b, a ≡ b if and only if a-b is an integer. This relation satisfies the three main properties of an equivalence relation and is commonly used in number theory.

5. Are there other ways to prove equivalence relation for xRy where x-y is an integer on real numbers?

Yes, there are other ways to prove equivalence relation for xRy where x-y is an integer on real numbers. One way is to use the definition of an equivalence relation and show that xRy satisfies the three main properties. Another way is to use a direct proof by showing that if xRy is true, then it implies the three main properties. Additionally, you can use a proof by contradiction or a proof by induction to prove equivalence relation for xRy.

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