Interchange Between Union and Intersection: Am I Correct?

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The discussion centers on the correctness of the interchange between union and intersection in set operations, specifically the equation involving indexed sets. The initial claim suggests that the left-hand side equals the right-hand side, but a counterexample is provided showing that the left-hand side can be empty while the right-hand side may not be. Participants are also seeking additional resources on set operations and change of variable techniques. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the conditions under which such interchanges hold true. Clarification on this topic is essential for accurate mathematical reasoning.
wayneckm
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Hello all,


I have the following question regarding the interchange between union and intersection.

\cup_{q < t} \cap_{s > q} A_{s} = \cap_{s<t} \cup_{q<s} A_{q} = \cup_{q < t} A_{q}

Am I correct? Also, can anyone provide me some more resources regarding this kind of interchange in set operation or change of variable technique?

Thanks.


Wayne
 
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Off the top of my head, it doesn't look correct.

Suppose Ai is empty for all i>100. Then \cap_{s>q}A_s will be empty for all q, and the union of these will be empty. So lhs is empty.

But rhs, being just a union of As, will not necessarily be empty.
 
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