Would you use Trichotomy?

  • Thread starter tronter
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In summary, if X is a metric space and a is a limit point of X, and f: X -> R is a function with a limit at a, and t is a fixed real number, then if there exists r > 0 such that f(x) >= t for every x in the ball of radius r centered at a, then the limit of f at a is greater than or equal to t. To prove this, one could use Trichotomy or find a sequence xk that converges to a and observe the values of f(xk) for each k. A contradiction can be easily reached if the limit of f at a is less than t.
  • #1
tronter
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Let [tex] X [/tex] be a metric space, let [tex] a \in X [/tex] be a limit point of [tex] X [/tex], and let [tex] f: X \to \mathbb{R} [/tex] be a function. Assume that the limit of [tex] f [/tex] exists at [tex] a [/tex]. Fix [tex] t \in \mathbb{R} [/tex]. Suppose there exists [tex] r > 0 [/tex] such that [tex] f(x) \geq t [/tex] for every [tex] x \in B_{r}(a) \backslash \{a \} [/tex]; then [tex] \lim_{x \to a} f(x) \geq t [/tex].

How would you prove this? Would you use Trichotomy?
 
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  • #2


Find a sequence xk such that xk converges to a. Then what can you say about f(xk) for each k?
 
  • #3


you will get a contradiction pretty easy if lim f(x)<t.
 

1. What is Trichotomy?

Trichotomy is a mathematical principle that states that any real number can be classified into one of three categories - positive, negative, or zero.

2. How is Trichotomy used in science?

Trichotomy is used in various scientific disciplines such as physics, chemistry, and biology to classify different variables and quantities into distinct categories. It is also used in mathematical proofs and calculations.

3. Can Trichotomy be applied to non-numerical concepts?

No, Trichotomy is a mathematical principle that can only be applied to numerical values. It cannot be used to classify non-numerical concepts or ideas.

4. What are the advantages of using Trichotomy?

Trichotomy provides a clear and concise way to classify numbers and variables, making it easier to understand and analyze complex mathematical problems. It also serves as a fundamental principle in various mathematical proofs and theorems.

5. Are there any limitations to using Trichotomy?

While Trichotomy is a useful principle in mathematics and science, it may not be applicable in all situations. For example, it does not account for complex numbers or infinitesimals. Additionally, the classification into three categories may not be sufficient for certain mathematical problems.

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