MHB Is $\Bbb R$ homeomorphic to a cartesian product?

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    2017
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The discussion revolves around the problem of proving that if the real numbers $\Bbb R$ are homeomorphic to a Cartesian product $A \times B$, then at least one of the sets $A$ or $B$ must be a singleton. No participants provided answers to the problem, indicating a lack of engagement or difficulty with the topic. The original poster has included their own solution to the problem for reference. The thread emphasizes the importance of understanding homeomorphisms in topology. Overall, the problem highlights a significant concept in the study of topological spaces.
Euge
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Prove that if $\Bbb R$ is homeomorphic to a cartesian product $A\times B$, then either $A$ or $B$ is a singleton.

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No one answered this week's problem. You can read my solution below.
Let $(a,b)$ be a point of $A \times B$ corresponding $0$ under a homeomorphism $\Bbb R \to A \times B$. Then there is a homeomorphism $\Bbb R\setminus \{0\} \to (A\times B) \setminus \{(a,b)\}$. Therefore, $(A \times B)\setminus\{(a,b)\}$ is disconnected. Since $A \times B$ is connected, then $A$ and $B$ are connected. So if neither $A$ nor $B$ is a singleton, then $(A\times B)\setminus\{(a,b)\}$ is connected. ($\rightarrow\leftarrow$)