Discrete Structures Question on a Relation

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a relation R defined on the set A of all strings of a's and b's of length 4, specifically regarding whether the order of the first two characters matters. Participants agree that the phrase "has the same first two characters" implies that order is not relevant, meaning strings like "baaa" and "abaa" would be considered related. The confusion arises from the exact wording of the problem, which lacks clarity on this point. Ultimately, the consensus is that the relation is based solely on the presence of the same characters, regardless of their order.

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Homework Statement


Let A be the set of all strings of a's and b's of length 4. Define a relation R on A as follows. For all s,t \in A, sRt, s has the same first two characters as t.

s=baaa
t=abaa

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



I just want to know if the order of the first two characters matters? if it does then they are not related, if it does not, they they are related.
 
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What is the exact statement of the problem? I would be inclined to interpret "has the same first two characters" as meaning that order is not relevant- but then I'm not grading you!
 
Unfortunately that is the exact way the problem is written which is why I'm also a bit confused. I'm inclined to agree with you on the belief that order doesn't matter, but I wasn't entirely sure. I've tried finding a good example or a source of info on the internet but have yet to find one. Any thoughts?

Thanks,
WMZ
 

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