Math Problem Statement
(2.3) Determine card(X) if X = {2n : n ∈ N}. Prove your answer. [4]
Solution
To determine (the cardinality of the set ), where , let's analyze the elements of .
Step 1: Define the Set
The set is defined as: This means includes all elements that are twice a natural number. For example:
- If ,
- If ,
- If ,
- And so forth.
Thus, represents the set of all positive even numbers:
Step 2: Determine the Cardinality of
To determine , we need to assess the number of elements in .
- Mapping to : Every element in corresponds uniquely to a natural number .
- One-to-One Correspondence: The function defined by is a one-to-one correspondence between (the set of natural numbers) and (the set of even natural numbers).
- Countability: Since there is a one-to-one correspondence between and , the cardinality of is the same as the cardinality of .
Conclusion
The set has the same cardinality as , which is (aleph-null), the cardinality of countably infinite sets. Therefore:
Proof Summary
- represents the set of positive even numbers.
- There exists a bijective (one-to-one and onto) function defined by .
- Since is countably infinite and there is a bijection between and , is also countably infinite.
- Thus, .
Would you like more details on this, or do you have any questions?
Related Questions
- What is the cardinality of the set of all odd natural numbers?
- How does bijection help determine cardinality for infinite sets?
- Can a subset of a countably infinite set ever be uncountable?
- What is the cardinality of the power set of ?
- How do we prove two sets have the same cardinality?
Tip
When determining the cardinality of a set, look for a bijection with a well-known set, such as , to simplify the process.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Set Theory
Cardinality
Natural Numbers
Infinity
Formulas
f(n) = 2n (bijective function for one-to-one correspondence)
Theorems
Bijection and Cardinality of Countably Infinite Sets
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 10-12