Where is the mistake in this formal proof?

In summary, the conversation is about a formal proof involving theorems and axioms in real numbers. The first line, which states that for all x, if for all y xy=y then x=1, is proven to be untrue by providing a counterexample. The conversation ends with a correct proof using the correct axiom.
  • #1
solakis1
422
0
we have the following formal proof:

i) \(\displaystyle \forall x[\forall y(xy=y)\Longrightarrow x=1]\).......theoren in real Nos

2)\(\displaystyle \forall y(xy=y)\Longrightarrow x=1\)......1,U.E ,x=x

3) \(\displaystyle (x0=0)\Longrightarrow x=1\)...... 2,U.E ,y=0

4)\(\displaystyle \forall A[A.0=0]\)........Theorem in Real Nos5) )\(\displaystyle [x.0=0]\)........4,U.E, A=x

6) x=1........3,5 M.Ponens

7) )\(\displaystyle \forall A[A=1]\)........ 6,U.I

U.E=Universal Elimination

U.I = Universal Introduction

I am afraid to say i find no mistake
 
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  • #2
The very first line is wrong, it should be:

1) $\forall x[\forall (y \neq 0): (xy = y ) \implies x = 1]$

One can see that your statement is clearly untrue by letting:

$x = 2, y = 0$

so it is not a theorem of the real numbers.

(Moral of the story: don't go proving stupid things by dividing by 0).
 
  • #3
Deveno said:
The very first line is wrong, it should be:

1) $\forall x[\forall (y \neq 0): (xy = y ) \implies x = 1]$

One can see that your statement is clearly untrue by letting:

$x = 2, y = 0$

so it is not a theorem of the real numbers.

(Moral of the story: don't go proving stupid things by dividing by 0).
1)\(\displaystyle \forall y(xy=y)\).......hypothesis

2)\(\displaystyle (x1=1)\).........1,U.E ,Y=1

3)\(\displaystyle \forall A[A.1=A]\).......Axiom in Real Nos

4))\(\displaystyle [x1=x]\).......3,U.E,A=x

5) x=1........Substituting ( 4) into (2)

6)\(\displaystyle \forall y(xy=y)\Longrightarrow x=1\)....... From (1) to (5) by using the rule of conditional proof

7)\(\displaystyle \forall x[\forall y(xy=y)\Longrightarrow x=1]\)..........6,U.I

Where is the mistake
 

FAQ: Where is the mistake in this formal proof?

What is a formal proof?

A formal proof is a rigorous mathematical argument that demonstrates the validity or truth of a statement. It follows a set of logical rules and uses axioms and definitions to reach a conclusion.

Why is it important to find mistakes in a formal proof?

Finding mistakes in a formal proof is crucial because it ensures the validity and accuracy of the statement being proved. If there is an error in the proof, it could lead to incorrect conclusions and undermine the entire argument.

How do scientists check for mistakes in a formal proof?

Scientists check for mistakes in a formal proof by carefully examining each step of the proof to ensure that it follows the rules of logic and that the statements being made are supported by evidence. They also look for any assumptions or definitions that may be incorrect or ambiguous.

What are some common mistakes found in formal proofs?

Some common mistakes found in formal proofs include logical fallacies, incorrect use of mathematical symbols, incorrect application of definitions or axioms, and incorrect assumptions. These mistakes can often be subtle and require close attention to detail to identify.

Is there a specific method for finding mistakes in a formal proof?

There is no specific method for finding mistakes in a formal proof as it depends on the complexity of the proof and the type of error that may have been made. However, some strategies that scientists may use include proofreading, peer review, and using computer programs to check for errors.

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