Finite subset of a metric space

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves an infinite set X and a finite subset E, with a focus on identifying the limit points of E using a specific metric. The discussion revolves around the definitions and properties of limit points in the context of metric spaces.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to argue that there are no limit points for any subset of X, citing the emptiness of neighborhoods around points in E. Some participants question this reasoning, noting the requirement that neighborhoods must contain points other than p.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing feedback on the original poster's assumptions and clarifying the conditions under which limit points can be identified. There is acknowledgment of the need for careful consideration of the definitions involved.

Contextual Notes

One participant requests proofs related to finite sets being closed and compact in metric spaces, indicating a potential expansion of the discussion beyond the original problem.

rjw5002

Homework Statement



Let X be an infinite set. For p,q [tex]\in[/tex] X define:
d(p,q) = {1 if p [tex]\neq[/tex] q; 0 if p = q
Suppose E is a finite subset of X, find all limit points of E.

Homework Equations



definition: a point p is a limit point of E if every neighborhood of p contains a point q [tex]\neq[/tex] p s.t. q[tex]\in[/tex]E

The Attempt at a Solution


My thoughts were that there are no limit points for any subset of X because for any point p, B(p, 1/n) is empty, [tex]\forall[/tex]n[tex]\in[/tex]N. Therefore, for any point p, there exists at least one neighborhood that contains no points q [tex]\in[/tex] E.

I feel that this is true, but have I made any incorrect assumptions??
Thanks a lot for any feedback.
 
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B(p,1/n) isn't empty for all n. For instance p is always in B(p,1/n), and if n=1, then B(p,1/n) is in fact all of X.

You definitely have the right idea, but you have to be a bit more careful.
 
remember that you have the additional rquirement that q[itex]\ne[/itex] p. I think that is what you meant to say. For all n, B(p, 1/n) contains p, but for some n, B(p, 1/n) does not include any other point of the set.
 
Right, ok. I can fix that detail. Thanks a lot guys.
 
i need the proof for every finite set is a closed set in a metric space ..
and finite set in a metric space in compact as soon as possible../.
 
nehakapoor said:
i need the proof for every finite set is a closed set in a metric space ..
and finite set in a metric space in compact as soon as possible../.

You will need to make a new topic for this. And it would also be nice to see your attempt...
 

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