Proving Set Theory Proof: (A-C) \cap (B-C) \cap (A-B) = ∅

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves proving a set theory statement regarding the intersection of three set differences: (A-C) ∩ (B-C) ∩ (A-B) = ∅. The discussion centers on the properties of set operations and the implications of membership in these sets.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the implications of assuming an element x belongs to the intersection of the three sets and analyze the resulting conditions on x. There is a focus on identifying contradictions arising from these conditions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is progressing with participants identifying contradictions in the conditions derived from the proof attempts. Some guidance has been offered regarding recognizing the contradiction, but there is no explicit consensus on the final conclusion.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the assumption that A, B, and C are arbitrary sets, and the proof must hold for all such sets. The nature of set differences and intersections is central to the discussion.

cmajor47
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Homework Statement


Prove that for all sets A, B, and C, (A-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (B-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (A-B) = ∅


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Proof: Suppose A, B, and C are sets
Let x [tex]\in[/tex] (A-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (B-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (A-B)
Since x [tex]\in[/tex] (A-C), by definition of difference, x [tex]\in[/tex] A and x [tex]\notin[/tex] C
Since x [tex]\in[/tex] (B-C), x [tex]\in[/tex] B and x [tex]\notin[/tex] C
Since x [tex]\in[/tex] (A-B), x [tex]\in[/tex] A and x [tex]\notin[/tex] B
Then by definition of intersection, if x [tex]\in[/tex] A then x [tex]\notin[/tex] C and x [tex]\notin[/tex] B
Also, if x [tex]\in[/tex] B then x [tex]\notin[/tex] C
Therefore there is no intersection of sets A, B, and C
Therefore, the intersection of (A-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (B-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (A-B) = ∅

Is this proof correct, I feel like I am missing something?
 
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cmajor47 said:

Homework Statement


Prove that for all sets A, B, and C, (A-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (B-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (A-B) = ∅


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Proof: Suppose A, B, and C are sets
Let x [tex]\in[/tex] (A-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (B-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (A-B)
Since x [tex]\in[/tex] (A-C), by definition of difference, x [tex]\in[/tex] A and x [tex]\notin[/tex] C
Since x [tex]\in[/tex] (B-C), x [tex]\in[/tex] B and x [tex]\notin[/tex] C
Since x [tex]\in[/tex] (A-B), x [tex]\in[/tex] A and x [tex]\notin[/tex] B

You are doing fine up to here. Do you see anything contradictory in those conditions you have on x?
 
It states that x [tex]\in[/tex] B and x [tex]\notin[/tex] B, which isn't possible.
Do I just say that since this is a contradiction, the intersection is the null set?
 
Sure. There is no x that can satisfy those two conditions.
 

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