Infinite Natural Numbers: First-Order Logic Formula Explained

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the infinite nature of natural numbers, established through four key axioms: (i) the existence of at least one natural number, (ii) the existence of a distinct successor for each natural number, (iii) the uniqueness of successors among natural numbers, and (iv) the existence of 0 as a non-successor. A first-order logic formula that reflects this infinite structure is presented as $$(\forall x\forall y\,(S(x)=S(y)\to x=y))\land \forall x\,S(x)\ne0$$. This formula is satisfiable only if the domain of the valuation is infinite, reinforcing the foundational properties of natural numbers.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of first-order logic and its syntax
  • Familiarity with the concept of successor functions in mathematics
  • Basic knowledge of natural numbers and their properties
  • Ability to interpret logical formulas and their implications
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the axioms of Peano arithmetic for a deeper understanding of natural numbers
  • Explore the implications of first-order logic in mathematical proofs
  • Learn about the successor function and its role in defining number systems
  • Investigate the concept of infinite sets in set theory
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Mathematicians, logicians, computer scientists, and students interested in foundational mathematics and the properties of natural numbers.

pooj4
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There are an infinite number of natural numbers. Why is that? Well this follows from the following facts:

(i) There is at least one natural number.

(ii) For each natural number there is a distinct number which is its successor, i.e., for each number $x$ there is a distinct number $y$ such that $y$ stands in the
successor relation to $x$.

(iii) No two natural numbers have the same successor.

(iv) There is a natural number, namely 0, that is not the successor of any number.Bearing these facts in mind, what's a formula in first-order logic that that is satisfiable by a valuation only if the domain of the valuation is infinite. Contain some non-logical vocabulary in presentation of course.
 
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$$(\forall x\forall y\,(S(x)=S(y)\to x=y))\land \forall x\,S(x)\ne0$$
 
Evgeny.Makarov said:
$$(\forall x\forall y\,(S(x)=S(y)\to x=y))\land \forall x\,S(x)\ne0$$

thanks that helps
 

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