What is a proof of set theory problems?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving set theory problems involving subset relationships and operations. Specifically, it addresses the equivalences of subset definitions: (i) A ⊆ B if and only if A ∪ B = B, and (ii) A ⊆ B if and only if A ∩ B = A. Additionally, it explores the implications of these definitions when considering complements, concluding that B ⊆ A^c if and only if A ∩ B = ∅, and that A^c ⊆ B if and only if A ∪ B = U. The participants emphasize the importance of element selection in proofs and the nuances of empty sets in set theory.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic set theory concepts, including subsets and set operations.
  • Familiarity with universal sets and complements in set theory.
  • Knowledge of logical equivalences and implications in mathematical proofs.
  • Ability to manipulate and reason with symbols and notation used in set theory.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of set operations, specifically focusing on union and intersection.
  • Learn about the role of complements in set theory and how they relate to subsets.
  • Explore logical proofs in mathematics, emphasizing the use of element arguments.
  • Investigate the implications of empty sets in set theory and their impact on proofs.
USEFUL FOR

Mathematics students, educators, and anyone interested in deepening their understanding of set theory and logical proofs.

congtongsat
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Problem:

(i)A[tex]\subseteq[/tex]B [tex]\Leftrightarrow[/tex] A[tex]\cup[/tex]B = B
(ii) A[tex]\subseteq[/tex]B [tex]\Leftrightarrow[/tex] A[tex]\cap[/tex]B = A

and

For subsets of a universal set U prove that B[tex]\subseteq[/tex]A[tex]^{c}[/tex] [tex]\Leftrightarrow[/tex] A[tex]\cap[/tex]B = empty set. By taking complements deduce that A[tex]^{c}[/tex][tex]\subseteq[/tex]B [tex]\Leftrightarrow[/tex] A[tex]\cup[/tex]B = U. Deduce that B = A[tex]^{c}[/tex] [tex]\Leftrightarrow[/tex] A[tex]\cap[/tex]B = empty set and A[tex]\cup[/tex]B = U.

Can't wrap my head around the last question at all. The i and ii seem simple but I'm just not getting it to work.
 
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(i) If A is empty, claim is true trivially. If it's not, then take an element of A, [tex]x \in A[/tex].

Suppose A is a subset of B. What does this mean for x? Use the definition of the cup operation :) Then suppose [tex]A \cup B = B[/tex] and do the same.

For (ii) you might want to assume that A is not empty because the thing you're trying to prove does not generally hold if both A and B are empty (mathematicians are weird...)

For the last bit, use again some element of b, [tex]y \in B[/tex]. Show that if [tex]y \in A^c[/tex] then it can't be in A.
 

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