Set of Points Where f Is Continuous

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SUMMARY

The set C, representing points where the function f: R --> R is continuous, can be expressed as the intersection of a countable collection of open sets in R. If C is empty, the statement holds true. For countably many points in C, each point can be represented as an intersection of open intervals, specifically x_i = intersection {(x_i - 1/n, x_i + 1/n) : n = 1, 2, ...}. This approach confirms that C can be articulated as a countable intersection of open sets.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of real analysis concepts, particularly continuity of functions.
  • Familiarity with open sets and intervals in the context of topology.
  • Knowledge of countable versus uncountable sets.
  • Basic skills in set theory and intersections of sets.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of continuous functions in real analysis.
  • Learn about the topology of R, focusing on open and closed sets.
  • Explore the concept of countability in set theory.
  • Investigate the implications of intersections of open sets in topology.
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those studying real analysis and topology, as well as anyone interested in the properties of continuous functions.

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Homework Statement
Let C be the set of points where f: R --> R is continuous. Show that C may be written as the intersection of a countable collection of open sets in R.


The attempt at a solution
If C is empty, the result is true. If C has countably many points, say x_0, x_1, ..., then R - {x_0, x_1, ...} is the union of countable collection of open intervals, (a_i, b_i) and so we may write C as the intersection of {[a_i, b_i]}. Of course, this is not what I want, but it's the best idea I've had so far. I don't know what to do if C is uncountable. Any tips?
 
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I have another idea for the countable case: If C = {x_0, x_1, ...}, for each x_i, we may write

x_i = intersection {(x_i - 1/n, x_i + 1/n) : n = 1, 2, ...}

which is a countable intersection. Thus, C is the intersection of countably many intersections of countably many open intervals.
 
Nevermind: I found a previous post about this.
 

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