Sets of all functions. Countable and Uncountable sets.

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The discussion revolves around determining whether the set of all functions from {0,1} to Z+ is countable or uncountable. The initial approach involves constructing a bijective correspondence between the functions and a product of countable sets, which leads to the conclusion that the set is countable. A simpler bijection is also suggested, mapping pairs of positive integers directly to the functions. The proof is deemed coherent and valid by other participants in the discussion. Overall, the consensus confirms that the set of functions is indeed countable.
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I have some confidence that this is the right idea. But whenever I have the slightest shred of doubt, I turn to the experts! :-pThus, before I write up my proof in my notes, does this look somewhat coherent?

The problem states:
“Determine whether the set of all functions from {0,1} to Z+ is countable or uncountable.”

First, I took a look at what a few functions looked like. For instance, {(0,5),(1,7)} would constitute a function. In general, the set of all functions in this case would be the collection of all {(0,n),(1,m)}, where n and m are positive integers. It then hit me that I can construct a bijective correspondence between the set of functions from {0,1} to Z+ and {0} X Z+ X {1} X Z+ by the mapping
((0,n),(1,m)) <-> (0,n,1,m).​
The latter set is a finite product of countable sets, and therefore countable. The desired result will follow.

Any input would be great! Thanks so much! =)
 
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jmjlt88 said:
I have some confidence that this is the right idea. But whenever I have the slightest shred of doubt, I turn to the experts! :-pThus, before I write up my proof in my notes, does this look somewhat coherent?

The problem states:
“Determine whether the set of all functions from {0,1} to Z+ is countable or uncountable.”

First, I took a look at what a few functions looked like. For instance, {(0,5),(1,7)} would constitute a function. In general, the set of all functions in this case would be the collection of all {(0,n),(1,m)}, where n and m are positive integers. It then hit me that I can construct a bijective correspondence between the set of functions from {0,1} to Z+ and {0} X Z+ X {1} X Z+ by the mapping
((0,n),(1,m)) <-> (0,n,1,m).​
The latter set is a finite product of countable sets, and therefore countable. The desired result will follow.

Any input would be great! Thanks so much! =)

Yes, this proof is fine. Note that there is also a simpler bijection with the set Z_+ \times Z_+, namely {(0,n), (1,m)} <-> (n,m).
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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