Proving Set Theory Proof: (A-C) \cap (B-C) \cap (A-B) = ∅

In summary, set theory proof is a method used to demonstrate the validity of statements about sets. The notation (A-C) \cap (B-C) \cap (A-B) = ∅ represents the intersection of three sets with no common elements. To prove this, one can use the definition of set intersection and properties of sets. Proving set theory proofs is important for understanding relationships between sets and their elements and verifying mathematical statements. Examples of set theory proofs include proving properties of sets and demonstrating principles such as De Morgan's laws and inclusion-exclusion.
  • #1
cmajor47
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Homework Statement


Prove that for all sets A, B, and C, (A-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (B-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (A-B) = ∅


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Proof: Suppose A, B, and C are sets
Let x [tex]\in[/tex] (A-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (B-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (A-B)
Since x [tex]\in[/tex] (A-C), by definition of difference, x [tex]\in[/tex] A and x [tex]\notin[/tex] C
Since x [tex]\in[/tex] (B-C), x [tex]\in[/tex] B and x [tex]\notin[/tex] C
Since x [tex]\in[/tex] (A-B), x [tex]\in[/tex] A and x [tex]\notin[/tex] B
Then by definition of intersection, if x [tex]\in[/tex] A then x [tex]\notin[/tex] C and x [tex]\notin[/tex] B
Also, if x [tex]\in[/tex] B then x [tex]\notin[/tex] C
Therefore there is no intersection of sets A, B, and C
Therefore, the intersection of (A-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (B-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (A-B) = ∅

Is this proof correct, I feel like I am missing something?
 
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  • #2
cmajor47 said:

Homework Statement


Prove that for all sets A, B, and C, (A-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (B-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (A-B) = ∅


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Proof: Suppose A, B, and C are sets
Let x [tex]\in[/tex] (A-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (B-C) [tex]\cap[/tex] (A-B)
Since x [tex]\in[/tex] (A-C), by definition of difference, x [tex]\in[/tex] A and x [tex]\notin[/tex] C
Since x [tex]\in[/tex] (B-C), x [tex]\in[/tex] B and x [tex]\notin[/tex] C
Since x [tex]\in[/tex] (A-B), x [tex]\in[/tex] A and x [tex]\notin[/tex] B

You are doing fine up to here. Do you see anything contradictory in those conditions you have on x?
 
  • #3
It states that x [tex]\in[/tex] B and x [tex]\notin[/tex] B, which isn't possible.
Do I just say that since this is a contradiction, the intersection is the null set?
 
  • #4
Sure. There is no x that can satisfy those two conditions.
 

FAQ: Proving Set Theory Proof: (A-C) \cap (B-C) \cap (A-B) = ∅

What is set theory proof?

Set theory proof is a mathematical method used to demonstrate the validity of statements or propositions about sets, which are collections of objects or elements.

What does (A-C) \cap (B-C) \cap (A-B) = ∅ mean?

This notation represents the intersection of three sets: (A-C), (B-C), and (A-B). The symbol ∅ indicates that the intersection of these sets is an empty set, meaning that there are no elements that are common to all three sets.

How do you prove that (A-C) \cap (B-C) \cap (A-B) = ∅?

To prove this statement, you can use the definition of set intersection and the properties of sets to show that there are no elements that are in all three sets. This can be done through logical reasoning and mathematical equations.

Why is proving the set theory proof important?

Proving set theory proofs is important because it allows us to understand and verify the relationships between sets and their elements. It also helps to establish the validity of mathematical statements and allows us to make conclusions based on these proofs.

What are some other examples of set theory proofs?

Some other examples of set theory proofs include proving the distributive, commutative, and associative properties of sets, proving the De Morgan's laws, and proving the inclusion-exclusion principle. There are many other types of set theory proofs that can be used to demonstrate various properties and relationships of sets.

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