Induction of Complementary Sets

In summary, the conversation is discussing the use of induction to prove the equation (A_1 \bigcup A_2 \bigcup A_3 \bigcup \cdots \bigcup A_n)^c = A^c_1 \bigcap A^c_2 \bigcap A^c_3 \bigcap \cdots \bigcap A^c_n and establishing a base case. It is mentioned that proving the case for two sets makes it easier to prove for n+1 sets, as n+1 sets can be seen as 1 set union with n sets.
  • #1
rbzima
84
0
I'm just wondering how induction can be used to show the following:

[tex](A_1 \bigcup A_2 \bigcup A_3 \bigcup \cdots \bigcup A_n)^c = A^c_1 \bigcap A^c_2 \bigcap A^c_3 \bigcap \cdots \bigcap A^c_n[/tex]
 
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  • #2
What's the base case? Did you try to establish whether a case follows if the previous is true (if the complement of the union of k sets is equivalent to the intersection of their respective complements, does this imply the same for k + 1 sets?).
 
  • #3
Once you show it for two sets, it is easy. n+1 sets can be considered as 1 set union with n sets. Complement this gives then the complement of 1 set intersected with the complement of the union of n sets.
 

FAQ: Induction of Complementary Sets

What is induction of complementary sets?

Induction of complementary sets is a method used in mathematical proofs to show that a statement is true for all natural numbers. It involves breaking down a statement into two parts, the base case and the inductive step, and proving that both parts hold true.

How does induction of complementary sets work?

Induction of complementary sets works by first proving that a statement holds true for the smallest possible value (the base case). Then, assuming that the statement is true for a given natural number, the inductive step shows that it must also be true for the next natural number.

What are complementary sets?

Complementary sets are two sets that have no elements in common. In other words, the intersection of the two sets is the empty set. For example, the sets {1, 2, 3} and {4, 5, 6} are complementary sets.

Why is induction of complementary sets important?

Induction of complementary sets is important because it allows us to prove statements that hold true for all natural numbers without having to check each individual case. This can save time and effort in mathematical proofs.

What are some examples of using induction of complementary sets?

Induction of complementary sets can be used to prove various mathematical statements, such as the sum of the first n odd numbers is n^2, or the number of subsets of a set with n elements is 2^n. It can also be applied in computer programming to show the correctness of algorithms.

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