Proving Power Set Notation: Let B \subseteq U

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the inequality of power set notations involving a subset B of a universal set U. Participants explore the implications of set complements and the definitions of power sets in this context, with a focus on notation and generalization in mathematical proofs.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion regarding the notation used, particularly the meaning of the subscript in the complement notation.
  • Another participant suggests that the subscript indicates the universal set for taking complements and proposes a reformulation of the problem.
  • A participant attempts to clarify their understanding by defining specific sets B and U and calculating their power sets, leading to an assertion of inequality.
  • Another participant challenges the approach of using specific sets, arguing that general proofs should not rely on particular instances and emphasizes the need for B to be a subset of U.
  • A hint is provided to find a common element between the power sets of B and the complement of B in U, suggesting a potential direction for the proof.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the appropriateness of using specific examples versus general cases in proofs. There is no consensus on the correct approach or resolution of the problem, and confusion regarding notation persists.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the notation used by the instructor differs from standard conventions, leading to misunderstandings. The discussion reflects a mix of exploratory reasoning and attempts to clarify definitions and relationships between sets.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in set theory, mathematical proofs, and those encountering non-standard notation in mathematical contexts may find this discussion relevant.

sssssssssss
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my actual problem is to let B be a subset of the set U and prove

P(B^{C}_{U}) \neq (P(B))^{C}_{P(U)}

but I am confused on the scripts and not quite sure what they are wanting me to do

i have Let B \subseteq U where B = {b} and U = {B}
I know P(B) = {empty set, {b}} and P(U) = {empty set, {B}}

i know superscript c means compliment, but i don't know what the subscript u means. Is it similar to an index?
am i suposed to assume that U means universal. i just don't know the next thought that i need.
 
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That's not a standard notation, but I assume that the subscript tells you the universal set with respect to which you are supposed to take complements. In other words, they want you to show:

\mathcal{P}(U \setminus B) \neq \mathcal{P}(U) \setminus \mathcal{P}(B)
 
Alright I figured it out i think.

Let B \subseteq U
Set B = {b} and U = {P(B), u}
P(B) = {empty set, {b}}
P(U) = {empty set, {empty set, {b}}, {u}, {{empty set, {b}}, u}}

Then i figured It was asking for the elements that are in set U that arent in set B

P(B^{c}_{U}) = {empty set, {u}}

And then i figured this was asking for the elements that are in P(U) that arent in P(B)

(P(B))^{c}_{P(U)} = {{empty set, {b}}, {u}, {{empty set, {b}}, u}}

So therefore, {empty set, {u}} \neq {{empty set, {b}}, {u}, {{empty set, {b}}, u}}

correct me if I am wrong por favor.
 
AKG said:
That's not a standard notation, but I assume that the subscript tells you the universal set with respect to which you are supposed to take complements. In other words, they want you to show:

\mathcal{P}(U \setminus B) \neq \mathcal{P}(U) \setminus \mathcal{P}(B)

i know! its so frustrating because my math teacher uses his own notation which is extremely dificult to decipher cause the book he assigned is different, and the internt has been consistently different!

(i actually got it before I saw you posted but thanks for the reassurance!)
 
Last edited:
sssssssssss said:
Alright I figured it out i think.

Let B \subseteq U
Set B = {b} and U = {P(B), u}
You can't just set B = {b}. It's like being asked to prove "the square of an even integer is even" and starting your proof by saying, "let's set n = 4." You also can't set U = {P(B), u}. Firstly, for the same reason as before, since you need to prove things in general, and not in some particular case where you set things to be very simple. Secondly, because for U to be the universal set, you need B to be a subset of U, and B is (generally) not a subset of {P(B), u}.
 
Hint: Find a general common element of P(B) and P(U/B). The exercise is probably what AKG suggests.
 

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