How to write a mathematically rigorous definition of completeness

In summary, completeness of a set means that it contains the limits of rational numbers and in terms of metric spaces, it means that every Cauchy sequence converges in the set. There are six equivalent properties of completeness in real numbers, including the Cauchy Criterion and the Bolzano-Weierstrass property.
  • #1
royzizzle
50
0
I know that the definition of completeness is that a set contains the limits of rational numbers.

and I know the definition of convergence is that for all e>0 there exists N such that for n>=N |xn - x| < e where x is the limit of the sequence.

how to combine the two?
thanks in advance
 
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  • #2
I know the definition in terms of metric spaces, so maybe this is what youre looking for...

A metric space (E,d) is called complete if every Cauchy sequence in E converges in E.

of course the definition for cauchy sequence is a sequence given any e>0
there is a positive integer N such that d(pm,pn) < e whenever n,m >N
 
  • #3
There are, in fact, six properties of the real numbers that are equivalent to "completeness".

1. The least upper bound property (every non-empty set having an upper bound has a least upper bound) and its "twin" the greatest lower bound property.

2. Monotone convergence (every increasing sequence having an upper bound converges and its "twin" that every decreasing sequence having a lower bound converges.)

3. The Cauchy Criterion (every Cauchy sequence converges)

4. The Bolzano-Weierstrass property (every bounded sequence contains a convergent subsequence.)

5. Every closed and bounded set is compact.

6. The set of all real numbers, with the usual metric, is a connected set.

Given anyone of those you can prove the other five.
 
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1. What is the purpose of writing a mathematically rigorous definition of completeness?

The purpose of writing a mathematically rigorous definition of completeness is to provide a precise and unambiguous description of what it means for a mathematical object or system to be complete. This definition helps to establish a common understanding and allows for rigorous reasoning and proofs within the mathematical framework.

2. How can one ensure that a definition of completeness is mathematically rigorous?

A mathematically rigorous definition of completeness should be logically consistent, precise, and free from any ambiguity. It should also be based on well-defined and accepted mathematical concepts and principles. Additionally, the definition should be able to withstand scrutiny and be applicable in different contexts.

3. What are some common examples of mathematical objects or systems that require a definition of completeness?

Some common examples of mathematical objects or systems that require a definition of completeness include sets, numbers, functions, and topological spaces. Completeness is also an important concept in analysis, algebra, and geometry.

4. How does completeness differ from other mathematical concepts such as compactness or connectedness?

Completeness is a property that describes the degree to which a mathematical object or system is sufficient, whole, or fully represented. It is closely related to the concepts of compactness and connectedness, which also describe the structure or properties of mathematical objects. However, completeness specifically refers to the degree of "being complete", while compactness and connectedness address different aspects such as size or continuity.

5. Can a mathematical system be both complete and incomplete at the same time?

No, a mathematical system cannot be both complete and incomplete at the same time. Completeness is a binary concept - a mathematical object or system is either complete or incomplete. However, a system may be considered complete with respect to one aspect or property, but incomplete with respect to another. For example, a set of real numbers may be complete in terms of its elements, but incomplete in terms of its topology.

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