Math Problem Statement

Which one of these is a Tautology? A. q ∨ p ∨ ¬q, B. q ∨ p → p ∧ q, C. p → ¬p, D. p ∧ (q ∨ r)

Solution

To solve this problem, we need to identify which of the given propositions is a tautology, i.e., which one is always true regardless of the truth values of the individual propositions.

Let's go through each option:

A. qp¬qq \lor p \lor \neg q:

  • This is a disjunction of qq, pp, and ¬q\neg q.
  • Simplification: q¬qq \lor \neg q is always true because either qq is true or ¬q\neg q is true.
  • So, this reduces to Truep\text{True} \lor p, which is always true regardless of pp.
  • Hence, A is a tautology.

B. qppqq \lor p \to p \land q:

  • This is a conditional statement, which is equivalent to ¬(qp)(pq)\neg(q \lor p) \lor (p \land q).
  • This does not always hold true, depending on the values of pp and qq. Hence, B is not a tautology.

C. p¬pp \to \neg p:

  • This is a conditional statement that says if pp is true, then ¬p\neg p must be true.
  • This is not always true because if pp is true, ¬p\neg p is false.
  • Hence, C is not a tautology.

D. p(qr)p \land (q \lor r):

  • This is a conjunction, which requires both parts to be true for the entire statement to be true.
  • This is not always true because it depends on the values of pp, qq, and rr.
  • Hence, D is not a tautology.

Conclusion:

The answer is A. qp¬qq \lor p \lor \neg q, which is a tautology.


Would you like a deeper breakdown of any of the propositions or further details?

Here are 5 related questions to consider:

  1. What is the definition of a tautology in logic?
  2. How can we prove a proposition is a tautology using truth tables?
  3. Can you identify a contradiction in propositional logic?
  4. How does the distributive property apply to logical operations?
  5. What is the difference between tautology and logical equivalence?

Tip: A tautology in propositional logic is a formula that is true in every possible interpretation, no matter the truth values of the individual components.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Propositional Logic
Tautology
Logical Operations

Formulas

p → q ≡ ¬p ∨ q
De Morgan's Laws
Logical equivalence

Theorems

Tautology Theorem
Contradiction
Law of Excluded Middle

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12