Truth Table in Discrete Mathematics

In summary, the "division into cases" rule of inference is a valid rule that can be used to derive $A\lor B\to C$ from $A\to C$ and $B\to C$. It can be proven using a truth table, where the statement $(A\to C)\land (B\to C)\to(A\lor B\to C)$ is shown to be a tautology. This can be achieved by constructing a truth table for the implication statement and showing that it is true for all possible combinations of truth values for $p$ and $q$. The use of the ... tags can help with properly aligning the truth table for clarity.
  • #1
Joystar77
125
0
Use a truth table to determine that "division into cases" rule of inference is valid.
 
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  • #2
You'll have to tell us what this rule is and where are you stuck constructing the truth table. My guess is that the rule derives $A\lor B\to C$ from $A\to C$ and $B\to C$, but rule names vary between courses and textbooks. If it is indeed this rule, then you need to construct the truth table for $(A\to C)\land (B\to C)\to(A\lor B\to C)$ and show that it is a tautology.
 
  • #3
Is this an acceptable truth table in determining that the "division into cases" rule of inference is valid?

p q p arrow q

T T T

T F F

F T T

F F T
 
  • #4
What you wrote is a truth table for implication. To repeat,

Evgeny.Makarov said:
You'll have to tell us what this rule [i.e., division into cases] is.
Also make sure you know what it means, by definition, for a rule to be valid.

You can put a material that requires alignment inside the [code]...[/code] tags because these tags preserve spaces. E.g.:

Code:
p  q  p -> q
------------
T  T    T
T  F    F
F  T    T
F  F    T

Click on the "Reply With Quote" button to see how this is done.
 
  • #5
Thank you Evgeny.Makarov!
 

FAQ: Truth Table in Discrete Mathematics

What is a truth table in discrete mathematics?

A truth table is a table used in discrete mathematics to display all possible combinations of truth values for a given logical expression. It shows the relationship between the inputs and outputs of a logical expression, and is used to determine the truth value of a compound statement.

How do you read a truth table?

A truth table is read from left to right, with the inputs listed in the first columns and the outputs listed in the last column. Each row represents a different combination of input values, and the corresponding output value is displayed in the last column.

What are the symbols used in a truth table?

The symbols used in a truth table include logical operators such as AND, OR, and NOT. The AND symbol is represented by a dot or a multiplication sign, the OR symbol is represented by a plus sign, and the NOT symbol is represented by a bar or a dash.

How is a truth table useful in discrete mathematics?

A truth table is useful in discrete mathematics because it provides a systematic and organized way to evaluate the truth value of complex logical expressions. It allows for easy identification of contradictions and tautologies, and can be used to prove the validity of arguments.

Are there any limitations to using truth tables?

While truth tables are a useful tool in discrete mathematics, they can become increasingly complex and cumbersome as the number of inputs increases. Additionally, truth tables do not account for the real-world uncertainties and shades of truth, and can only represent discrete and binary values.

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