Really a Question about Notation

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In summary: The negation of the statement is: there exists a positive integer ##y## such that ##5 y^2 + 5y+1## is not prime.In summary, the statement is that ##5 y^2 + 5y+1## is prime for any positive integer ##y##, but the negation is that there exists a positive integer ##y## such that ##5 y^2 + 5y+1## is not prime.
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Atomised
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Homework Statement



Form negation and then either prove statement or negation:

[itex]\forall[/itex]y [itex]\in[/itex] {[itex] x | x \in Z, x>=1[/itex]}, [itex]5y^2+5y+1[/itex] is a prime number.

The Attempt at a Solution



Answer given:

[itex]\exists[/itex]y [itex]\in[/itex] {[itex] x | x \in Z, x>=1[/itex]} such that [itex]5y^2+5y+1[/itex] is not prime.

The negation is true, counterexample follows.

My question is why are [itex]x,y[/itex] mixed up?
 
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  • #2
What do you mean why are [itex]x, y[/itex] mixed up?
 
  • #3
Well, there exists y belonging to a set where the elements are defined by x...

Would it be valid to express it as there exists x belonging to a set where the elements are defined by x... or the above the preferred way of doing it?
 
  • #4
The way I interpret it is like this:

Let [itex]X[/itex] be defined as the set of numbers [itex]\{x|x\in\mathbb{Z}, x\geq1\}[/itex].

Then:

[itex]\exists y \in X \text{ such that } 5y^2+5y+1 \text{ is not prime}[/itex]

This might make it clearer that the set is being defined by the dummy variable [itex]x[/itex]. It has no real purpose besides just being a dummy variable from what I can see.
 
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  • #5
Very helpful thank you.
 
  • #6
Atomised said:

Homework Statement



Form negation and then either prove statement or negation:

[itex]\forall[/itex]y [itex]\in[/itex] {[itex] x | x \in Z, x>=1[/itex]}, [itex]5y^2+5y+1[/itex] is a prime number.

The Attempt at a Solution



Answer given:

[itex]\exists[/itex]y [itex]\in[/itex] {[itex] x | x \in Z, x>=1[/itex]} such that [itex]5y^2+5y+1[/itex] is not prime.

The negation is true, counterexample follows.

My question is why are [itex]x,y[/itex] mixed up?

In plain English, the statement is: ##5 y^2 + 5y+1## is prime for any positive integer ##y##. Of course, as you have shown, the statement is false.
 
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FAQ: Really a Question about Notation

What is the purpose of notation in scientific research?

The purpose of notation in scientific research is to provide a standardized and concise way to represent ideas, data, and equations. This allows for clear communication and understanding among researchers and allows for replication and verification of results.

How do scientists choose which notation to use?

Scientists typically choose notation that is widely accepted and understood within their specific field of study. They may also choose notation that is most efficient and accurate for representing their research or that aligns with previously established theories or equations.

What are the advantages of using notation in scientific research?

Using notation in scientific research allows for efficient and precise communication of complex ideas and data. It also allows for easier manipulation and analysis of equations and data, as well as facilitating collaboration and replication of results.

What are common mistakes to avoid when using notation in scientific research?

Common mistakes when using notation in scientific research include using non-standard or ambiguous symbols, not defining the symbols used, and using inconsistent notation throughout a study. It is important to be mindful and consistent when using notation to ensure accurate and clear communication.

How can notation be used to enhance the understanding of scientific concepts?

Notation can enhance understanding of scientific concepts by providing a visual representation of complex ideas and relationships. It can also help identify patterns and connections between different concepts and simplify complex equations or data.

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