Proving Compactness of K in BR(0)

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves proving the compactness of a closed subset K of the complex numbers C, which is contained within an open ball of radius R centered at the origin. The task is to demonstrate that there exists a smaller radius r such that K is also contained within an open ball of radius r.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the definitions of open and closed balls, questioning the implications of using strict subset notation. Some express uncertainty about the formal requirements of the problem and how to articulate their reasoning.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring various interpretations of the problem, with some suggesting that a smaller ball can always fit within an open ball. There is mention of applying concepts from real analysis to support their reasoning, and guidance is offered regarding the use of compactness and open covers.

Contextual Notes

There is a discussion about the distinction between open and closed balls, with some participants noting that the problem likely refers to the open ball, which affects the interpretation of the compactness argument.

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Homework Statement



R>0, let K be a closed subset of C such that K [tex]\subset[/tex] BR(0) (so K is compact). Show that there exists 0 < r < R such that K[tex]\subset[/tex] Br(0).

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



Can I write BR(0) = {x[tex]\in[/tex]C : d(x,0) [tex]\leq[/tex]R}?
I know that a compact set is closed and bounded.
Is it something to do with us using [tex]\subset[/tex] and not [tex]\subseteq[/tex]?
As if it was [tex]\subseteq[/tex] then maybe K = BR(0) then there wouldn't be an r. But as K is strictly contained in the ball there must be a bit of room for manoeuvre.

These are my thoughts on this problem. I'm not sure if they're correct or what the question is asking, and if they are I don't know how to write them more formally?

Thank you :)
 
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Mathsgirl said:

Homework Statement



R>0, let K be a closed subset of C such that K [tex]\subset[/tex] BR(0) (so K is compact). Show that there exists 0 < r < R such that K[tex]\subset[/tex] Br(0).

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Can I write BR(0) = {x[tex]\in[/tex]C : d(x,0) [tex]\leq[/tex]R}?
I know that a compact set is closed and bounded.
Is it something to do with us using [tex]\subset[/tex] and not [tex]\subseteq[/tex]?
As if it was [tex]\subseteq[/tex] then maybe K = BR(0) then there wouldn't be an r. But as K is strictly contained in the ball there must be a bit of room for manoeuvre.

These are my thoughts on this problem. I'm not sure if they're correct or what the question is asking, and if they are I don't know how to write them more formally?

Thank you :)

From the context of the problem, they must mean B_R(0) to be the open ball, d(x,0)<R. Not the closed ball. Otherwise, it wouldn't be true.
 
Oh that makes more sense.

I think I need to say something like you can always fit a smaller ball inside an open ball.

I remember in real analysis I showed for a non-empty bounded above set E and epsilon >0, there exists an x in E such that supE - epsilon < x [tex]\leq[/tex] sup E. Is it something like this?
 
Mathsgirl said:
Oh that makes more sense.

I think I need to say something like you can always fit a smaller ball inside an open ball.

I remember in real analysis I showed for a non-empty bounded above set E and epsilon >0, there exists an x in E such that supE - epsilon < x [tex]\leq[/tex] sup E. Is it something like this?

Something 'like' that could be made to work. But it's a lot easier if you use the definition of 'compact' and a covering of K by open balls.
 

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