Proving a set of derivatives to be a subset of real functions

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around proving that a set of derivatives, denoted as Cn, is a subset of real functions and a subspace of a larger set V. The focus is on the properties that Cn must satisfy to be classified as a vector space, specifically through the method of mathematical induction.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • James introduces the set Cn and outlines the properties it must satisfy to be a subspace of V, seeking guidance on which properties to apply induction to.
  • One participant asserts that Cn is obviously a subset of V and suggests that induction is unnecessary for proving it as a vector space.
  • James insists on the requirement to use induction as specified in the problem statement.
  • Another participant clarifies that induction is needed to demonstrate the closure properties of Cn under addition and scalar multiplication, referencing the linearity of derivation as a key aspect of the inductive step.
  • James reiterates the properties Cn must satisfy and expresses uncertainty about applying induction to them, while another participant notes that properties 2 and 3 can be combined into a single statement regarding closure under linear combinations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants exhibit disagreement regarding the necessity of induction for proving that Cn is a vector space. While some argue that induction is not needed, others maintain that it is essential as per the problem's requirements.

Contextual Notes

There is an unresolved discussion about the specific application of induction to the properties of Cn, particularly whether to treat the closure under addition and scalar multiplication separately or together.

jimmybonkers
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let C0 be the set of continuous functions f : R -> R. For n >= 1, let Cn denote theset of functions f : R -> R such that f is differentiable and such that f' is contained in C(n-1). (Therefore Cn is the set of functions whose derivatives f',f'',f''',...,f^(n) up to the nth order exist and are continuous.) Prove by induction that Cn is a subspace of V where V is the set of all functions f : R -> R.

There are three properties that Cn must satisfy to be a subspace,
1.) it must contain the zero vector of V
2.) It must be closed under vector addition
3.) it must be closed under scalar multiplication

I am not sure which of these properties i must perform induction on (obviously not 1.) ) or should it be both 2.) and 3.)..?
I would greatly appreciate it if someone could give me a hint for what the inductive step should be..?

cheers,

James
 
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Obviosuly Cn is a subset of V, so you just need to prove that it's a vector space by showing that the conditions for a vector space are satisfied. You don't need to do any induction.
 
I am specifically asked to prove it by induction
 
You'll need induction to show that the (f+g)^(n) = f^(n) + g^(n) and that (cf)^(n) = cf^(n) (which is what you need to prove to show that C^n is closed under addition and scalar multiplication). The inductive step would simply be using the linearity of derivation.
 
jimmybonkers said:
There are three properties that Cn must satisfy to be a subspace,
1.) it must contain the zero vector of V
2.) It must be closed under vector addition
3.) it must be closed under scalar multiplication

I am not sure which of these properties i must perform induction on (obviously not 1.) ) or should it be both 2.) and 3.)..?
I would greatly appreciate it if someone could give me a hint for what the inductive step should be..?
3 implies 1. And 2 and 3 can be combined into "closed under linear combinations".

(af+bg)^{(m+1)}=((af+bg)^{(m)})' =\dots
 

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