Solving the One-to-One and Onto Problem of f: R→N

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The function f: R→N defined as f(x) = ceiling(2x/3) is questioned for its validity since it can produce negative outputs, which are not part of the natural numbers. The discussion highlights that the function should be defined from R to Z instead, as the ceiling function can yield negative integers. Participants suggest that the original problem may contain a typo, implying that the authors intended to use Z rather than N. If the function were redefined from R to Z, the answer regarding its properties could change. Overall, clarity on the function's range is essential for determining its one-to-one and onto characteristics.
nicnicman
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To me this problem doesn't seem right. Here it is:

Is the following function one-to-one, onto, both, or neither?
f: R→N f(x) = ceiling 2x/3

My answer: onto

Although, wouldn't this function be invalid since it produces negative numbers and the set of natural numbers doesn't include negatives? Consider f(-1.5) = -1.

Am I misunderstanding a concept?
 
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A lot of people would consider the ceiling function to be f:R->Z.
It would be invalid to say it's f:R->N Unless you restrict R to R+
 
Well, that's the way is worded in the book, so it must be a typo. Maybe the writers meant to put Z rather than N.

Would my answer be correct if were R to Z?

Thanks for the help.
 
Agreed.
 
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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