An Equivalence Relation with Cauchy Sequences

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving that the relation defined on the set of Cauchy sequences in \mathbb{Q}, denoted as (x_i) ∼ (y_i) if and only if limn→∞|x_n - y_n| = 0, is an equivalence relation. Participants confirm that reflexivity and symmetry can be demonstrated without subsequences, while transitivity follows from the triangle inequality. The hint regarding subsequences was ultimately deemed unnecessary and misplaced. The consensus is that the triangle inequality suffices for the proof.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Cauchy sequences in \mathbb{Q}
  • Familiarity with the concept of equivalence relations
  • Knowledge of the triangle inequality in metric spaces
  • Basic proficiency in limits and sequences in real analysis
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of equivalence relations in metric spaces
  • Explore the role of subsequences in convergence and limits
  • Investigate the implications of the triangle inequality in proofs
  • Learn about Cauchy sequences and their significance in real analysis
USEFUL FOR

Mathematics students, particularly those studying real analysis, and educators seeking to understand equivalence relations and Cauchy sequences in depth.

Aryth1
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We let [math]C[/math] be the set of Cauchy sequences in [math]\mathbb{Q}[/math] and define a relation [math]\sim[/math] on C by [math](x_i) \sim (y_i)[/math] if and only if [math]\lim_{n\to \infty}|x_n - y_n| = 0[/math]. Show that [math]\sim[/math] is an equivalence relation on C.

We were given a hint to use subsequences, but I don't think they are really necessary... Are they?

I don't need help with the proof, per say, I would just like an opinion of whether or not you think subsequences are necessary.

Reflexivity and Symmetry were easy to show without the use of subsequences, and transitivity seems to follow from the triangle inequality and the fact that [math]|x-y|\geq 0[/math] for all [math]x,y\in \mathbb{Q}[/math].

Any help is appreciated!

EDIT: Wasn't less than, but greater than.
 
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Aryth said:
We let [math]C[/math] be the set of Cauchy sequences in [math]\mathbb{Q}[/math] and define a relation [math]\sim[/math] on C by [math](x_i) \sim (y_i)[/math] if and only if [math]\lim_{n\to \infty}|x_n - y_n| = 0[/math]. Show that [math]\sim[/math] is an equivalence relation on C.

We were given a hint to use subsequences, but I don't think they are really necessary... Are they?

I don't need help with the proof, per say, I would just like an opinion of whether or not you think subsequences are necessary.

Reflexivity and Symmetry were easy to show without the use of subsequences, and transitivity seems to follow from the triangle inequality and the fact that [math]|x-y|\geq 0[/math] for all [math]x,y\in \mathbb{Q}[/math].

Any help is appreciated!

EDIT: Wasn't less than, but greater than.
Hi Aryth, and welcome to MHB!

I agree with you, the triangle inequality is all you need here.
 
Opalg said:
Hi Aryth, and welcome to MHB!

I agree with you, the triangle inequality is all you need here.

Thank you!

Just out of curiosity, is there a way to prove that this is an equivalence relation using subsequences? I'm not sure why the hint was presented to us in the first place.

EDIT: I figured out that the hint provided for this problem was meant for another problem. It was an incorrect placement. Thanks for your help, Opalg!
 
Last edited:

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