Sets of all functions. Countable and Uncountable sets.

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The discussion centers on determining whether the set of all functions from the set {0,1} to the positive integers (Z+) is countable or uncountable. The original poster proposes a bijective correspondence between the set of functions and the product set {0} X Z+ X {1} X Z+, concluding that this set is countable. Another participant confirms the validity of this proof and suggests a simpler bijection with the set Z_+ X Z+, represented as {(0,n), (1,m)} <-> (n,m).

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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).
 

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