Is R an Equivalence Relation on Functions to [0,1]?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relation R defined on the set of functions from X to [0,1], specifically Fun(X,[0,1]). It is established that R is transitive, as demonstrated by the countability of the set difference f^{-1}(0) \setminus g^{-1}(0). The relation R is confirmed to be reflexive since f^{-1}(0) \setminus f^{-1}(0) results in the empty set, which is countable. However, the symmetry of R requires further proof, as the example provided shows that f^{-1}(0) may not be countable even if the set difference is empty.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of equivalence relations, including properties like transitivity, reflexivity, and symmetry.
  • Familiarity with set theory concepts, particularly countable and uncountable sets.
  • Knowledge of function notation and inverse images, specifically f^{-1}(0).
  • Basic experience with mathematical proofs and logical reasoning.
NEXT STEPS
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  • Learn about countable versus uncountable sets, including Cantor's theorem.
  • Explore advanced topics in set theory, such as cardinality and the continuum hypothesis.
  • Practice constructing formal proofs, particularly in the context of relations and functions.
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Mathematics students, particularly those studying abstract algebra or set theory, as well as educators looking to enhance their understanding of equivalence relations and functions.

eXorikos
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Homework Statement


Given is the set X. The set of functions from X to [0,1] we call Fun(X,[0,1]). On this set we consider the relation R. An ordered pair (f,g) belongs to R when f^{-1}(0)\setminus g^{-1}(0) is a countable set.

a) Prove that R is transitive.

b) Is R an equivalence relation? Prove!

c) Prove that R \cap R^{-1} is an equivalence relation.

Homework Equations


Transitive means that if (f,g) and (g,h) belong to the relation, that also (f,h) belongs to it.

Equivalence relation is a relation that is transitive, reflexive ((f,f) \in R and symmetric ((f,g) \in R \Rightarrow (g,f) \in R.

The Attempt at a Solution


a) f^{-1}(0)\setminus g^{-1}(0) is a countable set. So f{-1}(0) is a countable set. This means that f^{-1}(0)\setminus h^{-1}(0), because a subset of a countable set is also countable.

Is this correct?

b) Reflexivity is easy, because f^{-1}(0)\setminus f^{-1}(0) is the empty set so that is obviously countable.
How do I prove that it is symmetric?

c) Is this just the subset of all the reflexive pairs?
 
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eXorikos said:
a) f^{-1}(0)\setminus g^{-1}(0) is a countable set. So f^{-1}(0) is a countable set.
You can't conclude f^{-1}(0) is countable. For instance, suppose X is R, the set of real numbers, and f(x)=g(x)=0. Then f^{-1}(0)\setminus g^{-1}(0) is the empty set, but f^{-1}(0)=R, which is not countable.
 

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