Math Problem Statement

Suppose that F is a field. Show that, for all x, y, z ∈ F, (x + y) · z = (x · z) + (y · z).

Solution

To show that (x+y)z=(xz)+(yz)(x + y) \cdot z = (x \cdot z) + (y \cdot z) for all x,y,zFx, y, z \in F, we will use the properties of fields.

Proof:

  1. Distributive Property: A field FF has the property of distributivity. Specifically, for any elements a,b,cFa, b, c \in F, the distributive law states: a(b+c)=ab+ac.a \cdot (b + c) = a \cdot b + a \cdot c. This means we can distribute multiplication over addition.

  2. Application of the Distributive Property: Let x,y,zFx, y, z \in F. By applying the distributive property, we rewrite the left-hand side: (x+y)z=z(x+y).(x + y) \cdot z = z \cdot (x + y). Now we apply the distributive property on zz and (x+y)(x + y): z(x+y)=zx+zy.z \cdot (x + y) = z \cdot x + z \cdot y.

  3. Rearranging Terms: Since multiplication in fields is commutative, we can rearrange: zx+zy=(xz)+(yz).z \cdot x + z \cdot y = (x \cdot z) + (y \cdot z).

Thus, we have shown: (x+y)z=(xz)+(yz).(x + y) \cdot z = (x \cdot z) + (y \cdot z).

Conclusion:

The property (x+y)z=(xz)+(yz)(x + y) \cdot z = (x \cdot z) + (y \cdot z) holds for all x,y,zFx, y, z \in F.

Do you want details or have any questions? Here are some related questions to consider:

  1. What are the key properties of fields?
  2. Can you provide an example of a field and verify this property?
  3. How does this property relate to vector spaces?
  4. What happens if we only consider a ring instead of a field?
  5. Can you prove other properties of fields using a similar approach?

Tip: Always remember to verify the properties of algebraic structures when proving relationships!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Abstract Algebra
Field Theory
Distributive Property

Formulas

a · (b + c) = a · b + a · c

Theorems

Distributive Property of Fields

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12