Is A Contained in B Equivalent to A Intersecting B Equals A?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving the equivalence between the statements "A contained in B" and "A intersecting B equals A." The user attempts to demonstrate this relationship using set theory notation, specifically the symbols for intersection (n) and union (U). The proof involves showing that if A is a subset of B, then every element of A is also in the intersection A n B, and vice versa. The conversation highlights the need for clarity in definitions and the importance of demonstrating subset relationships to establish equivalence.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of set theory concepts, including subsets and intersections.
  • Familiarity with mathematical notation, specifically the symbols for intersection (n) and union (U).
  • Knowledge of logical proof techniques, particularly direct proof and proof by contradiction.
  • Basic skills in manipulating set equations and expressions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of set operations, focusing on subset relationships.
  • Learn about direct proof techniques in set theory.
  • Explore the concept of equivalence relations in mathematics.
  • Review examples of proofs involving intersections and unions of sets.
USEFUL FOR

Students of mathematics, particularly those studying set theory, logic, and proof techniques. This discussion is beneficial for anyone looking to strengthen their understanding of set relationships and mathematical proofs.

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Homework Statement



Prove A contained B iff A n B = A

Homework Equations



none

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried to do the questions but I am just not sure if i did it right. id appreciate if you can check my work and let me know what changes i have to make. thanks

the symbol "n" means "intersect"
U for Union


(=>) Assume A contained B

Let x is an element of A, since A n A = A, x is an element of A and x is an element of B

Case 1: x is an element of A: Since A contained B, x is an element of B so
x is an element of A n B

Case 2: x is an element of B: If x is an element of B then
x is an element of (A n B)

Hence x is an element of A n B

This shows A contained A n B

(<=) Assume A n B = A then

A’=A’UA
= A’ U (A n B)
=(A’UA) n (A’U B)
= empty set n A’ U B
= A’ U B

Hence
Universe = A’ U B
 
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mbcsantin said:
Let x is an element of A, since A n A = A, x is an element of A and x is an element of B
You don't need the "since A n A = A" part.

Case 1: x is an element of A: Since A contained B, x is an element of B so
x is an element of A n B

Case 2: x is an element of B: If x is an element of B then
x is an element of (A n B)

Hence x is an element of A n B

This shows A contained A n B
You don't need cases here. You want to show that A n B = A: Do this by first showing that A n B is a subset of A and then showing that A is a subset of A n B. (Do you see why this implies A n B = A?)

(<=) Assume A n B = A then

A’=A’UA
= A’ U (A n B)
=(A’UA) n (A’U B)
= empty set n A’ U B
= A’ U B

Hence
Universe = A’ U B
What is A' exactly? Also, you state that A’=A’UA but then you have that A’=A’UA is the empty set. Surely there is something wrong here. You just need to show that A is a subset of B. Do this by picking a random member of A and show that it also belongs to B.
 

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