Quick simple set theory question

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the definitions of various properties of binary relations, specifically focusing on the relation denoted by ≥ and its implications in set theory. Participants are tasked with providing mathematical definitions for reflexivity, symmetry, transitivity, antisymmetry, and the concept of a lattice.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express uncertainty about whether ≥ is a variable or a specific relation, and question the format for stating definitions. There is an attempt to clarify the definitions by substituting ≥ for a more general relation R. Questions arise about the sufficiency of definitions, particularly for symmetry.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on how to approach the definitions, suggesting that they simply state the definitions while substituting the relation. There is acknowledgment of potential confusion regarding the interpretation of ≥ as 'greater than or equal to' and its relevance to the definitions being discussed.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the unconventional use of the symbol ≥ in the problem statement, which may lead to confusion about its intended meaning. There is also mention of a subsequent question that defines ≥ by a specific condition, indicating that the original poster's choice of notation may be deliberate.

ktheo
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Homework Statement



Let X be a set and ≥ be a binary relation on X
Provide a mathematical definition for

≥ is reflexive
≥ is symmetric
≥ is transistive
≥ is antisymmetric
X is a lattice


The attempt at a solution

So I'm not really sure what this is asking... specifically if ≥ is supposed to be some sort of variable he chose or if I'm missing something and the greater than or equal than means something. But in any case is this this asking me to state the general rules for binary relations? I.E. for reflexive that for any x\inX, xRx? I'm a little confused about what my format to show the definition is in regards to X and ≥
 
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ktheo said:

Homework Statement



Let X be a set and ≥ be a binary relation on X
Provide a mathematical definition for

≥ is reflexive
≥ is symmetric
≥ is transistive
≥ is antisymmetric
X is a lattice


The attempt at a solution

So I'm not really sure what this is asking... specifically if ≥ is supposed to be some sort of variable he chose or if I'm missing something and the greater than or equal than means something. But in any case is this this asking me to state the general rules for binary relations? I.E. for reflexive that for any x\inX, xRx? I'm a little confused about what my format to show the definition is in regards to X and ≥

Yes. Just state the definitions and substitute ≥ for R. So reflexive means x≥x for all x in X.
 
Dick said:
Yes. Just state the definitions and substitute ≥ for R. So reflexive means x≥x for all x in X.

Awesome cool. So to confirm,for symmetric:

For any x,y\inX, x≥y ----> y≥x is sufficient?
 
ktheo said:
Awesome cool. So to confirm,for symmetric:

For any x,y\inX, x≥y ----> y≥x is sufficient?

Yes, I think so. That will not likely be true if you read '≥' to mean 'greater than or equal to', but that looks like what the question is asking for. Just provide the mathematical definition.
 
Dick said:
Yes, I think so. That will not likely be true if you read '≥' to mean 'greater than or equal to', but that looks like what the question is asking for. Just provide the mathematical definition.

Okay thanks. He words it exactly as I wrote it out. I just found it a little weird that he uses ≥... but you must be right because in the next question he asks ≥ to be defined by "..." (a condition) so I guess it's just his choice of variable..
 

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