True Or False: Symmetry, anti-symmetric, asymmetry.

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the properties of relations in set theory, specifically symmetry, antisymmetry, and asymmetry. The statements evaluated include: 1) "If ≽ is not symmetric, then ≽ is not asymmetric" (False), 2) "If ≽ is not symmetric, then ≽ is not antisymmetric" (False), and 3) "If ≽ is not antisymmetric, then ≽ is not asymmetric" (True). The key takeaway is that a relation can be antisymmetric without being asymmetric, as demonstrated by the example of the set X: {(1,1)}, which is both symmetric and antisymmetric.

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  • Familiarity with definitions of symmetric, antisymmetric, and asymmetric relations.
  • Knowledge of logical implications and contrapositives in mathematical reasoning.
  • Basic proficiency in mathematical notation and set representation.
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  • Explore logical implications and contrapositives in mathematical proofs.
  • Investigate additional examples of relations that exhibit these properties.
  • Learn about equivalence relations and their connection to symmetry and antisymmetry.
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Students of mathematics, particularly those studying set theory and relations, as well as educators looking to clarify these concepts in a classroom setting.

ktheo
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Homework Statement



State whether the following are true or false. If false, give a counter-example:

1. ≽ is not symmetric [itex]\Rightarrow[/itex] ≽ is not asymmetric
2. ≽ is not symmetric [itex]\Rightarrow[/itex] ≽ is not antisymmetric
3. ≽ is not antisymmetric [itex]\Rightarrow[/itex] ≽ is not asymmetric

Homework Equations



Symmetric:
For any x,y[itex]\in[/itex]X, x≽y [itex]\Rightarrow[/itex] y≽x

Antisymmetric:
For any x,y[itex]\in[/itex]X, x≽y and y≽x and x=y

Asymmetric:
For any x,y[itex]\in[/itex]X, x≽y[itex]\neq[/itex]y≽x

The Attempt at a Solution



1. False. Lack of symmetry does not mean you can't be asymmetrical. Lack of symmetry in which x≽y [itex]\neq[/itex]y≽x is the very definition of anti-symmetry.

2. False. Lacking symmetry does not mean you lack anti-symmetry. I don't know how to explain this one.

3. True. A relation is asymmetric if and only if it is anti-symmetric. I can however, be anti-symmetric and not be asymmetric.

Could you guys look this over and give me some guidance on number 2?
 
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Hint: When you have "not" on both sides of the implication, use the contrapositive instead.
 
verty said:
Hint: When you have "not" on both sides of the implication, use the contrapositive instead.

Okay. So by that I assume you mean just prove that when I am anti-symmetric, I can be symmetric.

So could I say that given the set X: {(1,1)} in ℝ Is both anti-symmetric and symmetric?
 

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