Math Proof: Uncountable binary sequence and a bijection from R to R-{0}

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The discussion revolves around proving the cardinality of the set of real numbers R is the same as R-{0} by constructing a bijective function. Participants suggest using a function f(x) that maps real numbers to exclude zero, with hints towards defining f(x) differently for natural numbers. The second question addresses the uncountability of an infinite binary sequence, with references to Cantor's diagonalization argument for support. There is some confusion regarding the definitions and requirements for the bijection, but a proposed solution involves adjusting the function for natural numbers. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for clarity in defining bijections and understanding the implications of uncountability.
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Homework Statement


Question 1:
Prove that the cardinality of R (the set of all real numbers)is the same as the cardinality of R-{0} by constructing a bijective function from R to R-{0}

Question 2: Let A be the infinite sequence of binary numbers as follows:
A={(a1,a2,a3...)|ai= 0or 1 for all i in the natural numbers}

Show that A is uncountable


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



For question 2 I think I have to use a proof similar to Cantor's diagonalization argument for proving that the set of real numbers is uncountable. I think I have to use contradiction and assume that the set is countable.
 
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Yes, for (2) you need to do something very similar to Cantor diagonalization.

For one, you'll want to find a bijection f:\mathbb{R}\setminus \{0\}\rightarrow \mathbb{R}.

Hint, if x\notin \mathbb{N}, define f(x)=x.
 
I think Imay have misunderstood the second part. Isnt f(x) still f(x)=x?
 
iceblits said:
I think Imay have misunderstood the second part. Isnt f(x) still f(x)=x?

You define f(x)=x in (1) for all x not in \mathbb{N}.
 
so {(x| x =/= 1,2,3,4...)} ?
 
iceblits said:
so {(x| x =/= 1,2,3,4...)} ?

Uuh, what do you mean with that??

Also note that I consider 0 to be in \mathbb{N}.
 
gahh I am so sorry I don't understand..am I looking for a function that hits all numbers except for 0,1,2,3...?
 
iceblits said:
gahh I am so sorry I don't understand..am I looking for a function that hits all numbers except for 0,1,2,3...?

No, that's not what I stated. I just said you had to define f(x)=x for x\notin\{0,1,2,3,...\}. You still need to define f(0), f(1), f(2), ...

But you have to end up with a bijection f:\mathbb{R}\rightarrow \mathbb{R}\setminus \{0\}.
 
so how about f(x)={x+1 for the natural numbers and x otherwise) would that make it so that x is not in the natural numbers but f(x) exists for the natural numbers?
 
  • #10
iceblits said:
so how about f(x)={x+1 for the natural numbers and x otherwise) would that make it so that x is not in the natural numbers but f(x) exists for the natural numbers?

That's a nice proposal!
 
  • #11
yay...i can't believe it took me that long to understand what you were trying to say..its obvious now though :)
 
  • #12
Just wondering if under that function, the preimage of 1.
 

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