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

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the cardinality of the set of real numbers, R, is the same as that of R-{0}, and demonstrating that the set of infinite binary sequences is uncountable. Participants are exploring the construction of a bijective function and the application of Cantor's diagonalization argument.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need for a bijection from R to R-{0} and suggest defining functions for specific cases. There is an exploration of using Cantor's diagonalization for the uncountability of binary sequences. Questions arise about the definitions and implications of the proposed functions.

Discussion Status

There are various attempts to clarify the function definitions and their implications. Some participants express confusion about the requirements for the bijection, while others propose potential functions and seek feedback on their validity. The discussion is active, with multiple interpretations being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants note differing definitions of natural numbers and the inclusion of zero, which may affect the construction of the bijection. There is also a mention of needing to define the function for specific values in the natural numbers.

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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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