Topology Munkres Chapter 1 exercise 2 b and c- Set theory equivalent statements

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on exercises 2b and 2c from "Topology" (2nd ed.) by J. Munkres, specifically evaluating the truth of set-theoretic implications involving subsets. For exercise 2b, the statement "$A\subset B$ or $A\subset C \iff A \subset (B \cup C)$" is confirmed true in both directions using counterexamples involving rational numbers and intervals. In exercise 2c, the statement "$A\subset B$ and $A\subset C \iff A \subset (B\cap C)$" is validated as true in the reverse implication but false in the forward implication, demonstrating the necessity of both conditions for the conclusion to hold.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of set theory concepts, particularly subset relations.
  • Familiarity with logical implications and equivalences.
  • Knowledge of basic topology principles as outlined in Munkres' "Topology".
  • Ability to construct and analyze counterexamples in mathematical proofs.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of set operations in topology, focusing on union and intersection properties.
  • Explore counterexample construction in set theory to strengthen proof techniques.
  • Review logical equivalences and implications in mathematical reasoning.
  • Examine additional exercises from Munkres' "Topology" to deepen understanding of set relations.
USEFUL FOR

Mathematics students, particularly those studying topology or set theory, educators preparing lessons on logical implications, and anyone interested in enhancing their understanding of set relations and proofs.

cbarker1
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Dear Every one,

I am having some difficulties on exercise 2b and 2c from Topology 2nd ed by J. Munkres . Here are the directions:
determine which of the following states are true for all sets $A$, $B$, $C$, and $D$. If a double implication fails, determine whether one or the other one of the possible implication holds. If an equality fails, determine whether the statement becomes true if the "equal" symbol is replaced by one or the other of the inclusion symbols $\subset$ or $\supset$.

Problem 2b and 2c, respectively:

b. $A\subset B$ or $A\subset C \iff A \subset (B \cup C)$
c. $A\subset B$ and $A\subset C \iff A \subset (B\cap C)$

My attempt
Let $A=\left\{1,2,3,4,5\right\}$, $B=\left\{3,4,5\right\}$ and $C=\left\{1,2\right\}$.
b. I believe it to be true in $\implies$ and true in $\Longleftarrow$.
c. I believe it to be true in $\Longleftarrow$ and false in $\implies$.

Any counterexample can help me figure out why these are correct or incorrect.

thanks,
Cbarker1
 
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Hi Cbarker1,

In b., take $A$ to be the rationals, $B$ to be the interval $(-\infty, 0]$ and $C$ to be the interval $(0, \infty)$. Then $B \cup C$ is the reals so that $A \subset B \cup C$, but neither $A\subset B$ nor $A\subset C$. In c., if $a\in A$, then since $A \subset B$, $a\in B$; similarly, as $A\subset C$, $a\in C$. Hence $a\in B\cap C$. Since $a$ was arbitrary, one concludes $A\subset B\cap C$.
 

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