Finding the Supremum of S: A Proof

In summary, the supremum of a set is the smallest number that is greater than or equal to all elements in the set. It may or may not be an actual element in the set, and it is not necessarily unique. To prove the existence of a supremum, we use the completeness axiom or the least upper bound property. A set can only have one supremum, and finding it is important in mathematical proofs and applications such as establishing bounds and determining limits of sequences. It is also a fundamental concept in real analysis and topology.
  • #1
Kinetica
88
0

Homework Statement



Let S:={1-(-1)^n /n: n in N}
Find supS.

The Attempt at a Solution



Is this the right way to write the solution?
Thanks!

First, I want to show that 2 is an upper bound.
For any n in N, 1-(-1)^n /n is less or equal to 2. Thus, n=2 is an upper bound.

Second, I want to show that 2 is the least upper bound.
Assume there is an arbitrary upper bound v, such that v<2. Then, however, v< 1-(-1)^n /n for any n in N. Thus, v is not an upper bound. Hence, supS=2.
 
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  • #2
Kinetica said:

Homework Statement



Let S:={1-(-1)^n /n: n in N}
Find supS.


The Attempt at a Solution



Is this the right way to write the solution?
Thanks!

First, I want to show that 2 is an upper bound.
For any n in N, 1-(-1)^n /n is less or equal to 2. Thus, n=2 is an upper bound.

Why is 1-(-1)^n/n always less or equal than 2?

Second, I want to show that 2 is the least upper bound.
Assume there is an arbitrary upper bound v, such that v<2. Then, however, v< 1-(-1)^n /n for any n in N. Thus, v is not an upper bound. Hence, supS=2.

Why is v < 1-(-1)^n/n for any n in N?? (this is not true) You only need v<1-(-1)^n for one n in N. Which one?
 
  • #3
Pretty close, hopefully the mistake was just a typo:

"Then, however, v< 1-(-1)^n /n for any n in N."

Replace "any" with "some" and it's fine. Can you see why?

EDIT: Too slow lol.
 

FAQ: Finding the Supremum of S: A Proof

What is the definition of supremum?

The supremum of a set S is the least upper bound of S, meaning it is the smallest number that is greater than or equal to all elements in S.

How is the supremum different from the maximum?

The supremum may or may not be an actual element in the set, whereas the maximum is always an element in the set. Additionally, the maximum is unique while the supremum may not be.

How do you prove the existence of a supremum?

To prove the existence of a supremum, we must show that there is a number that is greater than or equal to all elements in the set, and that no smaller number satisfies this condition. This can be done using the completeness axiom or the least upper bound property.

Can a set have more than one supremum?

No, a set can only have one supremum. If a set has multiple upper bounds, then the supremum is the smallest of these upper bounds.

What is the importance of finding the supremum of a set?

Finding the supremum is important in many mathematical proofs and applications. It allows us to establish bounds for a set and determine the limit of a sequence, among other things. It is also a fundamental concept in real analysis and topology.

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