Math Problem Statement
On Homework #7, you proved [p =⇒ (q ∨ r)] ≡ [(p ∧ (¬q) =⇒ r]. Hence, to prove a statement of the form p =⇒ (q ∨ r) directly, you assume that p is true and q is false, then use these assumptions, plus definitions and previously proven results, to show that r is true. (a) Show that [(p ∧ (¬q) =⇒ r] ≡ [(p ∧ (¬r) =⇒ q]. You may use either a truth tables or strings of previously established logical equivalences. (This result means that you do NOT have to also go through the case where you assume p is true and r is false, then prove q is true.) [3]
Solution
To show that , we can approach this problem using logical equivalences to manipulate and compare both sides of the equivalence.
Steps using Logical Equivalences:
We start with the expression on the left-hand side: By definition of implication (), we can rewrite the implication: Now, apply De Morgan's law to : So, the expression becomes: This simplifies to: Thus, we have:
Now let's look at the right-hand side of the equivalence: Again, using the definition of implication: Apply De Morgan's law again to : So, the expression becomes: This simplifies to: And since is equivalent to , this is the same as: Thus, we have:
Since both sides of the equivalence reduce to , we can conclude:
Conclusion:
We have shown that by reducing both sides to the same logical expression, .
Would you like a more detailed breakdown of any steps or have any questions? Here are 5 related questions for further exploration:
- How does De Morgan's law work for more complex logical expressions?
- Can you show the proof using a truth table instead of logical equivalences?
- What is the role of distributive properties in logical equivalence?
- How would the equivalence change if we added negations to both and ?
- How does this logical equivalence apply to proving directly?
Tip: When using logical equivalences, remember that De Morgan's laws and the definition of implication () are powerful tools for simplifying complex logical statements.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Logic
Logical Equivalence
Implication
De Morgan's Law
Formulas
A ⇒ B ≡ ¬A ∨ B (Implication Definition)
¬(A ∧ B) ≡ ¬A ∨ ¬B (De Morgan's Law)
Theorems
De Morgan's Laws
Implication Definition
Suitable Grade Level
College Level (Introductory Logic)