Proof of Continuity of f+g & f*g on R

In summary, the problem asks to show that there exist nowhere continuous functions f and g, such as the Dirichlet function, whose sum f+g is continuous on R. The same is true for their product, as shown by f(x) = 1-D(x) and g(x) = D(x). The product of f(x) and g(x) is equal to D(x) - D(x)^2, which can be written in terms of the limit of cos(m!*pi*x)^(4n) as n, m --> infinity. Whether x is rational or irrational will result in different values for the product, but both will not be continuous.
  • #1
ƒ(x)
328
0

Homework Statement



Show that there exist nowhere continuous functions f and g whose sum f+g is continuous on R. Show that the same is true for their product.

Homework Equations



None

The Attempt at a Solution



Let f(x) = 1-D(x), where D(x) is the Dirichlet function
Let g(x) = D(x)

(f+g)(x) = 1

(f*g)(x) = D(x) - D(x)^2 <-- where I'm befuddled

I know that D(x) can be written as the limit of cos(m!*pi*x)^(2n) as n, m --> infinity and that D(x)^2 is then equal to cos(m!*pi*x)^(4n). Since n --> infinity, are D(x) and D(x)^2 equivalent?
 
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  • #2
Write out the definitions of f(x) and g(x) in terms of x and look at their product.
 
  • #3
LCKurtz said:
Write out the definitions of f(x) and g(x) in terms of x and look at their product.

You mean it will alternate between 0^2 and 1^2 then?
 
  • #4
ƒ(x) said:
You mean it will alternate between 0^2 and 1^2 then?

No. I mean if x is rational what are f(x) and g(x) and their product. And what if x is irrational?
 

What is meant by "Proof of Continuity of f+g & f*g on R"?

Proof of Continuity of f+g & f*g on R refers to the mathematical demonstration that a function defined on the set of real numbers, f+g, and the product of two functions on the set of real numbers, f*g, are both continuous (i.e. have no sudden jumps or breaks) on the entire set of real numbers.

Why is it important to prove continuity of functions on the set of real numbers?

Proving continuity of functions on the set of real numbers is important because it allows us to make accurate predictions and calculations in various mathematical and scientific fields. It ensures that the function behaves smoothly without any unexpected changes or disruptions, and therefore, can be relied upon for accurate results.

What are the key steps in proving continuity of f+g & f*g on R?

The key steps in proving continuity of f+g & f*g on R include: 1) showing that the individual functions (f and g) are continuous on the set of real numbers, 2) using the properties of continuity to prove that the sum or product of two continuous functions is also continuous, and 3) verifying that the resulting function (f+g or f*g) satisfies the definition of continuity at every point on the set of real numbers.

What are some common techniques used in proving continuity of functions on the set of real numbers?

Some common techniques used in proving continuity of functions on the set of real numbers include: 1) using the epsilon-delta definition of continuity, 2) using the intermediate value theorem, 3) using the squeeze theorem, and 4) using the continuity of basic functions such as polynomials, trigonometric functions, and exponential functions.

Are there any special cases or exceptions when proving continuity of f+g & f*g on R?

Yes, there are some special cases or exceptions when proving continuity of f+g & f*g on R. For example, if one of the individual functions (f or g) is discontinuous at a certain point on the set of real numbers, then the resulting function (f+g or f*g) may also be discontinuous at that point. In such cases, additional techniques and considerations may be needed to prove continuity of the resulting function.

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