Set Theory (Proof): Show E is Open/Closed

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving properties of a set E in topology, specifically that E is open if and only if the intersection of E and its boundary ∂E is empty, and that E is closed if and only if ∂E is a subset of E. The user successfully demonstrated the first part of the proof but sought assistance with the second. Key insights include the use of the closure operator and the concept of adherent points, referencing Gamelin and Greene's "Intro to Topology" as a resource for understanding these concepts.

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  • Understanding of set theory and topology concepts, particularly open and closed sets.
  • Familiarity with boundary points and the closure operator in metric spaces.
  • Knowledge of adherent points and their significance in topology.
  • Experience with proof techniques, including direct and contrapositive methods.
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  • Study the definitions and properties of open and closed sets in topology.
  • Learn about the closure operator and its implications for set boundaries.
  • Explore the concept of adherent points in more depth, particularly in metric spaces.
  • Review proof strategies in topology, focusing on direct proofs and contrapositives.
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Students of topology, mathematicians interested in set theory, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of open and closed sets in metric spaces.

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Homework Statement



The boundary \partial E of a set E if defined to be the set f points adherent to both E and the complement of E,
\partial E=\overline{E}\bigcap \overline{(X\backslash E)}

Show that E is open if and only if E \bigcap \partial E is empty. Show that E is closed if and only if \partial E \subseteq E

I did the first part, but I need help with the second part.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


Assume E is closed, then E = \overline{E} and its complement is open
so, (X\backslash E) \subset \overline{(X\backslash E)} and \overline{(X\backslash E)}
(contains points in X but not in X\E)
So, E\bigcap \overline{(X\backslash E)}=\overline{E} \bigcap \overline{(X\backslash E)} is non empty and every point in \overline{E} \bigcap \overline{(X\backslash E)} is in E since E=\overline{E}
So, \partial E \subseteq E

But I am having trouble going in the other direction
 
Last edited:
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I've seen this question before. Are you working out of the metric space chapter in Gamelin and Greene's "Intro to Topology?" That's the only place I've ever seen "adherent points."

You're trying to prove

\partial E \subset E \Rightarrow E=\overline{E}?

I got this by looking at the contrapositive. We know that if the closure is the set of all adherent points, then a set is always a subset of its own closure, correct? Then the contrapositive would look like

\overline{E} \not\subset E \Rightarrow \partial E \not\subset E.

Try taking it from there. Perhaps there is a direct method of proof, but the contrapositive was the first route that popped into my head.
 

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