Every interval (a,b) contains both rational and irrational numbers

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on Theorem 7 from Chapter 1 of Charles Chapman Pugh's "Real Mathematical Analysis," which asserts that for any interval (a, b) where \(a < b\), the set difference \(B \setminus A\) contains at least two distinct rational numbers, denoted as \(r\) and \(s\). Participants seek clarification on how this conclusion follows from the theorem's premises, particularly in the context of Dedekind cuts, which are defined as pairs of subsets \(A\) and \(B\) that satisfy specific conditions. The notation \(A|A'\) is also discussed, indicating a Dedekind cut involving the sets \(A\) and \(A'\).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Dedekind cuts in the context of real analysis
  • Familiarity with rational and irrational numbers
  • Basic knowledge of set theory and notation
  • Reading comprehension of mathematical proofs and theorems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of Dedekind cuts in detail
  • Explore the implications of Theorem 7 in real analysis
  • Learn about the completeness of the real numbers and its relation to rational numbers
  • Review additional examples of intervals containing both rational and irrational numbers
USEFUL FOR

Mathematics students, educators, and anyone interested in real analysis, particularly those studying the properties of real numbers and the structure of rational and irrational numbers within intervals.

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I am reading Chapter 1:"Real Numbers" of Charles Chapman Pugh's book "Real Mathematical Analysis.

I need help with the proof of Theorem 7 on pages 19-20.

Theorem 7 (Chapter 1) reads as follows:
View attachment 3828
View attachment 3829In the above proof, Pugh writes:

" ... ... The fact that $$a \lt b$$ implies the set B \ A contains two distinct rational numbers, say $$r, s$$. ... ... "

Can someone help me to understand exactly how it follows that $$a \lt b$$ implies the set B \ A contains two distinct rational numbers, say $$r, s$$?

Peter***NOTE***

Since Theorem 7, Chapter 1, mentions cuts, i am providing Pugh's definition of a Dedekind cut, as follows:View attachment 3830
 
Last edited:
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Peter, could you please explain the meaning of the notation $A|A'$?
 
Euge said:
Peter, could you please explain the meaning of the notation $A|A'$?
Sorry Euge, I should have included that notation after the definition of a cut in $$\mathbb{Q}$$ ... ... my apologies ...

A cut in $$\mathbb{Q}$$ is a pair of subsets $$A, B$$ with the three conditions shown above in my post ... the Dedekind cut is denoted $$A|B$$ ...

So $$A|A$$' is a Dedekind cut involving the two sets $$A$$ and $$A'$$

Hope that helps ...

Peter
 

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