I can't think of a counterexample to disprove this set theory theorem

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around a set theory theorem stating that if the union of two families of sets F and G is disjoint, then the families themselves must also be disjoint. Participants explore the implications of including empty sets in these families, noting that while empty sets do not contribute to a union, they can affect intersections. Clarification is sought regarding whether the intersection of families containing empty sets can still be considered disjoint. The conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly interpreting set operations and the definitions of disjoint sets. Ultimately, the complexities of set theory and the role of empty sets are central to the inquiry.
the baby boy
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I can't think of a counterexample to disprove this set theory "theorem"

Assume F and G are families of sets.

IF \cupF \bigcap \cupG = ∅ (disjoint), THEN F \bigcap G are disjoint as well.
 
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Think of using the empty set efficiently.
 


Just so I understand, an empty set in a family of sets would be the following?:
Family of sets F = {{1,2,3},{4,5,6},{∅}}?

Suppose I included an empty set in both of the families, would the intersection still be a disjoint or would it be the set {∅}?
 
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It doesn't hold if F = G = {\emptyset}.
 


So empty sets are not counted in a union, but they are in an interception?
 


the baby boy said:
So empty sets are not counted in a union, but they are in an interception?
No, that's not it.
\cup F \bigcap \cup G = \cup \{\emptyset\} \bigcap \cup \{\emptyset\}
= \emptyset \bigcap \emptyset
= \emptyset
However, F \cap G = \{\emptyset\}, which is a non-empty set, so F and G are not disjoint.
(Note it doesn't really make sense to say "F \cap G is disjoint" - it takes 2 sets to be disjoint, and F \cap G is only a single set. So I assume you meant "F and G are disjoint" and not "F \cap G is disjoint."
 


Could you further clarify how the union of a family set consisting of just {∅} becomes ∅?

From my previous example, what would ∪F be?
Family of sets F = {{1,2,3},{4,5,6},{∅}}
∪F = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6} or {∅, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6}?
 

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