Proving A Subset B & C $\Rightarrow$ A Subset (B $\cup$ C)

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SUMMARY

The statements regarding the subset relationships are false. Specifically, the claim that if $A \subset B$ and $A \subset C$, then $A \subset (B \cup C)$ is true, but the reverse implication is false. A counterexample is provided where $A \subset B$, $A \neq \emptyset$, and $C = \emptyset$. Additionally, the statement that $A \subset B$ or $A \subset C$ implies $A \subset (B \cap C)$ is also false, with a counterexample where $A \subset B$, $A \neq \emptyset$, and $B \cap C = \emptyset.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of set theory, particularly subset relationships.
  • Familiarity with union and intersection operations in set theory.
  • Basic knowledge of logical implications and counterexamples.
  • Ability to construct and analyze mathematical proofs.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of set operations, focusing on union and intersection.
  • Learn how to construct counterexamples in mathematical proofs.
  • Explore logical implications in set theory, particularly the differences between necessary and sufficient conditions.
  • Review the concept of empty sets and their role in subset relationships.
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, students studying set theory, educators teaching logic and proofs, and anyone interested in understanding the nuances of subset relationships.

cbarker1
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Dear Everybody,

I am struggling now for determining if the following statements are true or false. If the statement is true, then prove it. If not, make a counterexample.
Here are the statements:
  1. $A \subset B$ and $A \subset C$ if and only if $A \subset (B\cup C)$.
  2. $A \subset B$ or $A \subset C$ if and only if $A \subset (B\cap C)$.

My attemption:
Let A={1,2,3}, B={1,2,4}, and C={3}.
  1. I believe this is true. $A\subset B$ and $A\subset C$. Thus $A \subset (B\cup C)$ is true.
  2. I don't know how to begin.
Thanks,
Cbarker1
 
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Hi Cbarker1.

The two statements are in fact false, thus you just need to find a counterexample to disprove each. Hints:

  1. The $\Rightarrow$ part is true but not the $\Leftarrow$ part. Consider $A\subset B$, $A\ne\emptyset$, and $C=\emptyset$.
    -
  2. This time $\Leftarrow$ is true but not $\Rightarrow$. Consider $A\subset B$, $A\ne\emptyset$, and $B\cap C=\emptyset$.
 

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