Math Problem Statement

Determine if the following argument is valid: p ∨ q ¬p _______ q Is the argument valid or invalid? How many binding rows are there? Name a row that supports the argument [1-4].

Solution

The argument given in the image can be written as:

  1. pqp \vee q (premise 1)
  2. ¬p\neg p (premise 2)
  3. qq (conclusion)

We need to determine if the argument is valid and answer the related questions. Let's go step-by-step.

Step 1: Determine if the argument is valid

The argument is structured as a disjunctive syllogism, which is a valid form of reasoning in logic. The rule of disjunctive syllogism is as follows:

  • If pqp \vee q is true and ¬p\neg p is true, then qq must be true.

This matches the given premises:

  • pqp \vee q (either pp or qq is true)
  • ¬p\neg p (it is not true that pp)

Therefore, qq must be true. Hence, the argument is valid.

Step 2: Number of binding rows

Binding rows refer to the truth table rows where the premises are true, and we check if the conclusion holds. Since this is a disjunctive syllogism, we don't need to construct the full truth table for such a simple argument. We can say that there are two rows:

  • One row where pp is false, and qq is true (for pqp \vee q to hold).
  • The second row, where pp is true, but this is rejected by ¬p\neg p, making qq the only valid truth.

Step 3: Name a row that supports the argument

A row that supports the argument would be one where the premises hold true and lead to the conclusion. In this case, Row 2, where pqp \vee q is true, and ¬p\neg p is true, leading to qq being true, supports the argument.

Would you like more details or have any questions?


Here are 5 relative questions that expand upon the current topic:

  1. What is the definition of a valid argument in formal logic?
  2. How does a truth table help in determining the validity of an argument?
  3. Can disjunctive syllogism be applied in everyday reasoning, and how?
  4. What is the difference between a valid argument and a sound argument?
  5. How would the argument change if the conclusion were ¬q\neg q instead of qq?

Tip: When analyzing logical arguments, it's useful to familiarize yourself with common argument forms like modus ponens, modus tollens, and disjunctive syllogism.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Logic
Disjunctive Syllogism
Truth Table

Formulas

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Theorems

Disjunctive Syllogism

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12