Proving Convexity of the Set X = {(x, y) E R^2; ax + by <= c} in R^2

In summary, the conversation discusses a proof exercise involving a convex set defined in the vector space chapter of a book. The participants discuss how to show that a given set is convex by applying the definition to two arbitrary points in the set. They also discuss multiplying inequalities and adding them to prove convexity.
  • #1
bonildo
14
1
This exercise is located in the vector space chapter of my book that's why I am posting it here.
Recently started with this kind of exercise, proof like exercises and I am a little bit lost
Proof that given a, b, c real numbers, the set X = {(x, y) E R^2; ax + by <= c} ´is convex at R^2

the definition of convex set in the book is given like that: u, v E X => [u, v] C X
and [u,v]={ (1-t)u+tv ; 0<=t<=1}Didnt do much, just that :
u=(x1,y1) and ax1+by1<c
v=(x2,y2) and ax2+by2<c

and that [u,v]={(1-t)x1+tx2,(1-t)y1+ty2)}
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Okay, you have ##ax_1+by_1\leq c## and ##ax_2+by_2\leq c##. Try multiplying the two inequalities by ##1-t## and ##t##, respectively, and then adding.
 
  • #3
Infrared said:
Okay, you have ##ax_1+by_1\leq c## and ##ax_2+by_2\leq c##. Try multiplying the two inequalities by ##1-t## and ##t##, respectively, and then adding.

Ok, got to a((1-t)x1+tx2)+b((1-t)y1+ty2)<=c . But why it proof that X is convex ?
 
  • #4
You just have to try to apply the exact definition of convex to the two arbitrary points of the set defined by that inequality. This will test whether you actually understand what that definition is saying.
 
  • Like
Likes bonildo
  • #5
You're trying to show that ##(1-t)u+tv## is in the half-plane ##ax+by\leq c##. You also have ##(1-t)u+tv=((1-t)x_1+tx_2,(1-t)y_1+ty_2).## So, you're trying to show that ##a\left((1-t)x_1+tx_2\right)+b\left((1-t)y_1+ty_2\right)\leq c.## But this is the inequality you just wrote

bonildo said:
Ok, got to a((1-t)x1+tx2)+b((1-t)y1+ty2)<=c . But why it proof that X is convex ?
 
  • Like
Likes bonildo
  • #6
Infrared said:
You're trying to show that ##(1-t)u+tv## is in the half-plane ##ax+by\leq c##. You also have ##(1-t)u+tv=((1-t)x_1+tx_2,(1-t)y_1+ty_2).## So, you're trying to show that ##a\left((1-t)x_1+tx_2\right)+b\left((1-t)y_1+ty_2\right)\leq c.## But this is the inequality you just wrote
got it , thanks
 

1. What is a vector space?

A vector space is a mathematical structure that is defined by a set of vectors and a set of operations (such as addition and scalar multiplication) that can be performed on those vectors. The vectors in a vector space can be added together and multiplied by scalars, and these operations must follow certain rules to maintain the structure of the vector space.

2. What is a convex set?

A convex set is a subset of a vector space that contains all the points on the line segment connecting any two points within the set. In other words, if you take any two points within a convex set and draw a straight line between them, all the points on that line must also be within the set. A convex set is often visualized as a shape that is curved outward and has no "dents" or "holes" in it.

3. How are vector spaces and convex sets related?

Vector spaces and convex sets are related in that a convex set is a subset of a vector space. This means that all the vectors within a convex set are also vectors within the larger vector space. Additionally, the operations of addition and scalar multiplication that are defined in a vector space can also be performed on the vectors within a convex set.

4. What are some examples of vector spaces and convex sets?

Some examples of vector spaces include the set of all 2D and 3D vectors, the set of all polynomials with real coefficients, and the set of all functions from one real number to another. Examples of convex sets include circles, spheres, cubes, and any other shape that is curved outward and has no "dents" or "holes" in it.

5. Why are vector spaces and convex sets important in science?

Vector spaces and convex sets are important in science because they provide a framework for understanding and analyzing many different types of mathematical and physical systems. They allow scientists to model and manipulate complex systems using simple and well-defined rules, and they are used in many areas of science, including physics, computer science, and engineering.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
964
  • Linear and Abstract Algebra
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Linear and Abstract Algebra
Replies
5
Views
941
  • Linear and Abstract Algebra
Replies
19
Views
4K
  • Linear and Abstract Algebra
Replies
13
Views
1K
  • Linear and Abstract Algebra
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Linear and Abstract Algebra
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Linear and Abstract Algebra
Replies
5
Views
1K
Back
Top