DISCRETE MATH: Determine whether an argument is correct or not

In summary: Q(Eight Men Out)A(Eight Men Out)----------\therefore\,\neg\,A(Eight Men Out)Argument is invalid, fallacy of affirming the conclusion.
  • #1
VinnyCee
489
0

Homework Statement



Determine whether the argument is correct or incorrect and explain why.

A) Everyone enrolled in the university has lived in a dormitory. Mis has never lived in a dormitory. Therefore, Mia is not enrolled in the university.

B) A convertible car is fun to drive. Isaac's car is not a convertible. Therefore, Isaac's car is not fun to drive.

C) Quincy likes all action movies. Quincy likes the movie Eight Men Out. Therefore, Eight Men Out is an action movie.

D) All lobstermen set at least a dozen traps. Hamilton is a lobsterman. Therefore, Hamilton sets at least a dozen traps.

Homework Equations



Modus Tollens:

[tex]\neg\,q[/tex]
[tex]p\,\longrightarrow\,q[/tex]
----------
[tex]\therefore\,\neg\,p[/tex]

Modus Ponens:

[tex]p[/tex]
[tex]p\,\longrightarrow\,q[/tex]
----------
[tex]\therefore\,q[/tex]

Fallacey of denying the hypothesis.

The Attempt at a Solution



A) E(x) = "x is enrolled in the university" and L(x) = "x has lived in a dormitory"

[tex]\neg\,L(Mia)[/tex]
[tex]E(x)\,\longrightarrow\,L(x)[/tex]
----------
[tex]\therefore\,\neg\,E(Mia)[/tex]

Argument is correct, it uses Modus Tollens.B) C(x) = "x is a convertible" and F(x) = "x is fun to drive"

[tex]\neg\,C(Isaac's\,\,car)[/tex]
[tex]C(x)\,\longrightarrow\,F(x)[/tex]
----------
[tex]\therefore\,\neg\,F(Isaac's car)[/tex]

Argument is invalid, fallacey of denying the hypothesis.C) I don't know how to set this one up, can some one help? I think it is invalid because of Fallacey of Affirming the conclusion, is that right?D) L(x) = "x is a lobsterman" and T(x) = "x sets at elast a dozen traps"

[tex]L(Hamilton)[/tex]
[tex]L(x)\,\longrightarrow\,T(x)[/tex]
----------
[tex]\therefore\,T(Hamilton)[/tex]

Argument is correct, it uses Modus Ponens.
 
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  • #2
C: Yes, it is invalid. Use
Q(x) = "Quincy likes movie x"
A(x) = "movie x is an action movie"
 

1. What is discrete math?

Discrete math is a branch of mathematics that deals with discrete objects, as opposed to continuous ones. It involves the study of mathematical structures and objects that can only take on distinct, separated values.

2. How is discrete math used in determining the correctness of arguments?

Discrete math provides the tools and techniques for analyzing and evaluating logical statements and arguments. It helps in identifying valid or invalid reasoning and allows for the construction of rigorous proofs to support or refute arguments.

3. What are the key concepts in discrete math that are relevant to determining argument correctness?

Some key concepts in discrete math that are relevant to determining argument correctness include propositional logic, set theory, and graph theory. These concepts allow for the analysis of logical statements, the representation of relationships between objects, and the visualization of complex structures.

4. How can one determine if an argument is correct or not using discrete math?

One can determine if an argument is correct or not by breaking it down into its component statements and using the rules of logic to evaluate each statement. This involves checking for consistency, validity, and soundness. Additionally, one can use tools such as truth tables and proof techniques to verify the correctness of an argument.

5. Can discrete math be applied to real-world situations when determining argument correctness?

Yes, discrete math can be applied to real-world situations when determining argument correctness. It can be used in fields such as computer science, engineering, and economics, where logical reasoning and critical thinking are crucial. Discrete math can also help in solving real-world problems by providing a systematic and structured approach to analyzing arguments and making evidence-based conclusions.

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