Proof of Natural Number Inequality: a < b < c

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In summary, to prove that if a, b, c are natural numbers and a < b and b < c, then a < c, we can use the axioms that if a < b, then there exists a natural number e such that a + e = b. By using this axiom and showing that a + x + y = c, where x and y are also natural numbers, we can conclude that a < c. This is the correct approach to proving this statement.
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cragar
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Homework Statement


prove that if a; b; c are natural
numbers and if a < b and b < c, then a < c.

Some axioms we are allowed to use is if a<b then there exists a natural number e
such that a+e=b.

The Attempt at a Solution


If a<b then there is a natural number x such that a+x=b,
if b<c then there exists a natural number y such that b+y=c,
Now since b= a+x then a+x+y=c and since x+y is a another natural number, call it z then
a+z=c which implies a<c.
Is this the correct way to go about it.
 
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Right.
 

1. What is the definition of "less than"?

Less than is a mathematical comparison between two numbers, where the first number is smaller than the second number. It is denoted by the symbol <, and is read as "is less than". For example, 2 < 5 means that 2 is less than 5.

2. How can we prove that one number is less than another number?

There are several ways to prove that one number is less than another number. One method is to use the properties of inequalities, such as transitivity and addition/subtraction. Another method is to use mathematical induction, where we show that a statement is true for the first number and then prove that if it is true for one number, it is also true for the next number.

3. Can we use a number line to prove the "less than" relationship?

Yes, a number line can be used to visually demonstrate the "less than" relationship between two numbers. The smaller number will always be to the left of the larger number on the number line, indicating that it is less than the larger number.

4. How is the "less than" relationship related to other mathematical concepts?

The "less than" relationship is closely related to other mathematical concepts such as greater than, equal to, and inequalities. It is also used in various mathematical operations, such as addition and subtraction, and is an important concept in geometry and algebra.

5. Are there any real-life applications of the "less than" relationship?

Yes, the "less than" relationship has many real-life applications. It is used in measurements, such as height and weight, where one value is smaller than the other. It is also used in economics, where we compare prices and incomes. In science, it is used to compare data and make conclusions about experiments. It is a fundamental concept in our daily lives and is applied in various fields.

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