A proof question about continuity

In summary: N(x-x_{0}) < \delta$, we have $N(x-a_{0}) < N(x-x_{0}) + N(x_{0}-a_{0}) < \delta$. This implies that $N(x-a_{0}) < \delta$. Therefore, $f(x) \leq N(x-a_{0}) < \delta$. This means that $|f(x) - y_{0}| < \epsilon$. Hence, $f$ is continuous. In summary, the function $f$ is continuous and $f^{-1}(0)=E$.
  • #1
i_a_n
83
0
Let $E⊂\mathbb{R}^{n}$ be a closed, non-empty set and $\mathbb{R}^{n}→\mathbb{R}$ be a norm. Prove that
the function
$f(x) = inf$ {$N(x-a) s.t. a∈E$}, $f :\mathbb{R}^{n}→\mathbb{R}$ is continuous and $f^{-1}(0)=E$.(There are some hint:
$f^{-1}(0)=E$ will be implied by $E$ closed. $f :\mathbb{R}^{n}→\mathbb{R}$ is continuous implied by triangle inequality.I still can't get the proof by the hint. So...thank you for your help!)
 
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  • #2
Proof:First, we prove that $f^{-1}(0)=E$. Let $x\in E$. Then, for all $a \in E$, $N(x-a) = 0$. Thus, we have $f(x) = inf$ {$N(x-a) s.t. a∈E$} $= 0$. Hence, $x\in f^{-1}(0)$. Conversely, let $x \in f^{-1}(0)$. Then $f(x) = 0$. This implies that for all $a \in E$, $N(x-a) = 0$. Since $E$ is closed, we have $x \in E$. Therefore, $f^{-1}(0)=E$. Next, we prove that $f :\mathbb{R}^{n}→\mathbb{R}$ is continuous. Let $x_{0}$ be any point in $\mathbb{R}^{n}$. Let $y_{0} = f(x_{0})$. Let $\epsilon > 0$ be any real number. We need to show that there exists a $\delta > 0$ such that for all $x \in \mathbb{R}^{n}$, if $N(x-x_{0}) < \delta$ then $|f(x) - y_{0}| < \epsilon$. Since $y_{0} = f(x_{0}) = inf$ {$N(x_{0}-a) s.t. a\in E$}, there exists an $a_{0}\in E$ such that $N(x_{0}-a_{0}) < y_{0} + \frac{\epsilon}{2}$. By the triangle inequality, we have $N(x-a_{0}) \leq N(x-x_{0}) + N(x_{0}-a_{0})$. Let $\delta = \frac{\epsilon}{2} + N(x_{0}-a_{0})$. Then for all $x \in \mathbb{R}^{n}$, if $
 

FAQ: A proof question about continuity

What is continuity in mathematics?

Continuity is a fundamental concept in mathematics that describes the smoothness and unbroken nature of a function or a curve. It means that as the input of a function or the independent variable changes, the output or the dependent variable changes in a predictable and gradual manner.

How is continuity defined?

Continuity is defined as the property of a function where the limit of the function at a certain point exists and is equal to the value of the function at that point. In other words, a function is continuous at a point if the limit of the function exists at that point and is equal to the function value at that point.

What is the difference between continuity and differentiability?

Continuity and differentiability are two related but distinct concepts in mathematics. While continuity describes the smoothness of a function, differentiability describes the rate at which the function changes. A function can be continuous but not differentiable, but a function cannot be differentiable at a point if it is not continuous at that point.

How do you prove continuity of a function?

To prove the continuity of a function, we need to show that the limit of the function exists and is equal to the function value at a certain point. This can be done by evaluating the left and right-hand limits at that point and showing that they are equal. We can also use the definition of continuity and show that the function satisfies it at that point.

What are some real-life applications of continuity?

Continuity has various applications in real life, such as in physics, engineering, and economics. For example, in physics, it is used to model the smooth and continuous motion of objects. In engineering, it is used to design structures and machines with smooth and unbroken movements. In economics, it is used to model the smooth and gradual changes in supply and demand curves.

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