Simple Verification of a Group

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on verifying whether the set of rational numbers with denominators equal to 1 or 2 forms a group under addition. The user presents a proof involving the expression ##2a+d## to demonstrate closure but questions its completeness, particularly regarding cases where both numerators are odd. The conclusion emphasizes the necessity of addressing all scenarios, including odd numerators, to finalize the proof of closure for the group.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of group theory concepts, specifically closure under addition.
  • Familiarity with rational numbers and their properties.
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills, particularly with fractions.
  • Knowledge of even and odd integers and their implications in number theory.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of groups in abstract algebra.
  • Research closure properties in group theory, focusing on addition.
  • Examine proofs involving rational numbers and their classifications.
  • Learn about the implications of even and odd integers in mathematical proofs.
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Students of abstract algebra, mathematicians interested in group theory, and educators teaching concepts related to rational numbers and their properties.

Bashyboy
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Homework Statement


Determine whether the set of rational numbers with denominator equal to 1 or 2 is a group under addition.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



Please have a look at the closure proof of part 5. I don't quite understand how ##q/2## implies that the denominator of ##p/q## will be 1 or 2, so I tried to conceive of my own.

Either ##2a+d## is even or is odd. If even, then ##\frac{2a+d}{2} = \frac{2k}{2} = \frac{k}{1}## which is therefore in reduced form and puts it in ##G##. Now, if odd, then the numerator and denominator of ##\frac{2a+d}{2}## have no common factors and is therefore already in reduced form. Because the denominator is ##2##, it is by definition in ##G##.

Is there anything wrong with this proof? Although I gave my own, I would like to understand the linked solution.
 
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It looks mostly fine. But by using ##2a+d## you have not covered the case where both numerators are odd. You need to cover that case as well to complete the proof.
 

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