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Logic and ProofNumeracy Workshop

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 2 / 33

Introduction

These slides give a brief introduction to mathematical logic and methods of proof

Workshop resources: These slides are available online:

www.studysmarter.uwa.edu.au → Numeracy and Maths → Online Resources

Next Workshop: See your Workshop Calendar →

www.studysmarter.uwa.edu.au

Drop-in Study Sessions: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 10am-12pm, Room 2202, SecondFloor, Social Sciences South Building, every week.

Email: geoff.coates@uwa.edu.au

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 3 / 33

Introduction

These slides give a brief introduction to mathematical logic and methods of proof

Workshop resources: These slides are available online:

www.studysmarter.uwa.edu.au → Numeracy and Maths → Online Resources

Next Workshop: See your Workshop Calendar →

www.studysmarter.uwa.edu.au

Drop-in Study Sessions: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 10am-12pm, Room 2202, SecondFloor, Social Sciences South Building, every week.

Email: geoff.coates@uwa.edu.au

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 3 / 33

Introduction

These slides give a brief introduction to mathematical logic and methods of proof

Workshop resources: These slides are available online:

www.studysmarter.uwa.edu.au → Numeracy and Maths → Online Resources

Next Workshop: See your Workshop Calendar →

www.studysmarter.uwa.edu.au

Drop-in Study Sessions: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 10am-12pm, Room 2202, SecondFloor, Social Sciences South Building, every week.

Email: geoff.coates@uwa.edu.au

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 3 / 33

Introduction

These slides give a brief introduction to mathematical logic and methods of proof

Workshop resources: These slides are available online:

www.studysmarter.uwa.edu.au → Numeracy and Maths → Online Resources

Next Workshop: See your Workshop Calendar →

www.studysmarter.uwa.edu.au

Drop-in Study Sessions: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 10am-12pm, Room 2202, SecondFloor, Social Sciences South Building, every week.

Email: geoff.coates@uwa.edu.au

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 3 / 33

Introduction

These slides give a brief introduction to mathematical logic and methods of proof

Workshop resources: These slides are available online:

www.studysmarter.uwa.edu.au → Numeracy and Maths → Online Resources

Next Workshop: See your Workshop Calendar →

www.studysmarter.uwa.edu.au

Drop-in Study Sessions: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 10am-12pm, Room 2202, SecondFloor, Social Sciences South Building, every week.

Email: geoff.coates@uwa.edu.au

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 3 / 33

Mathematical Statements

Here are some examples of mathematical statements which are written in English:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater. X

The square root of two is irrational. X

Squaring a number always makes it larger. ×

Which of the above are true?

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 4 / 33

Mathematical Statements

Here are some examples of mathematical statements which are written in English:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater.

X

The square root of two is irrational. X

Squaring a number always makes it larger. ×

Which of the above are true?

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 4 / 33

Mathematical Statements

Here are some examples of mathematical statements which are written in English:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater.

X

The square root of two is irrational.

X

Squaring a number always makes it larger. ×

Which of the above are true?

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 4 / 33

Mathematical Statements

Here are some examples of mathematical statements which are written in English:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater.

X

The square root of two is irrational.

X

Squaring a number always makes it larger.

×

Which of the above are true?

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 4 / 33

Mathematical Statements

Here are some examples of mathematical statements which are written in English:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater.

X

The square root of two is irrational.

X

Squaring a number always makes it larger.

×

Which of the above are true?

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 4 / 33

Mathematical Statements

Here are some examples of mathematical statements which are written in English:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater. X

The square root of two is irrational.

X

Squaring a number always makes it larger.

×

Which of the above are true?

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 4 / 33

Mathematical Statements

Here are some examples of mathematical statements which are written in English:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater. X

The square root of two is irrational. X

Squaring a number always makes it larger.

×

Which of the above are true?

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 4 / 33

Mathematical Statements

Here are some examples of mathematical statements which are written in English:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater. X

The square root of two is irrational. X

Squaring a number always makes it larger. ×

Which of the above are true?

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 4 / 33

Mathematical Statements

The writing and reading maths workshop covered some shorthand notation to replacecommon mathematical words and phrases. Here is another one:

“∀” stands for “for all” or “for every possible value of”.

We can use this to shorten written statements:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater: ∀x ∈ R, x + 1 > x .

The square root of two is irrational:√

2 ∈ Q (or√

2 /∈ Q).

Squaring a number always makes it larger: ∀x ∈ R, x2 > x .

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 5 / 33

Mathematical Statements

The writing and reading maths workshop covered some shorthand notation to replacecommon mathematical words and phrases. Here is another one:

“∀” stands for “for all” or “for every possible value of”.

We can use this to shorten written statements:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater: ∀x ∈ R, x + 1 > x .

The square root of two is irrational:√

2 ∈ Q (or√

2 /∈ Q).

Squaring a number always makes it larger: ∀x ∈ R, x2 > x .

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 5 / 33

Mathematical Statements

The writing and reading maths workshop covered some shorthand notation to replacecommon mathematical words and phrases. Here is another one:

“∀” stands for “for all” or “for every possible value of”.

We can use this to shorten written statements:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater: ∀x ∈ R, x + 1 > x .

The square root of two is irrational:√

2 ∈ Q (or√

2 /∈ Q).

Squaring a number always makes it larger: ∀x ∈ R, x2 > x .

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 5 / 33

Mathematical Statements

The writing and reading maths workshop covered some shorthand notation to replacecommon mathematical words and phrases. Here is another one:

“∀” stands for “for all” or “for every possible value of”.

We can use this to shorten written statements:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater:

∀x ∈ R, x + 1 > x .

The square root of two is irrational:√

2 ∈ Q (or√

2 /∈ Q).

Squaring a number always makes it larger: ∀x ∈ R, x2 > x .

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 5 / 33

Mathematical Statements

The writing and reading maths workshop covered some shorthand notation to replacecommon mathematical words and phrases. Here is another one:

“∀” stands for “for all” or “for every possible value of”.

We can use this to shorten written statements:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater: ∀x ∈ R

, x + 1 > x .

The square root of two is irrational:√

2 ∈ Q (or√

2 /∈ Q).

Squaring a number always makes it larger: ∀x ∈ R, x2 > x .

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 5 / 33

Mathematical Statements

The writing and reading maths workshop covered some shorthand notation to replacecommon mathematical words and phrases. Here is another one:

“∀” stands for “for all” or “for every possible value of”.

We can use this to shorten written statements:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater: ∀x ∈ R, x + 1 > x .

The square root of two is irrational:√

2 ∈ Q (or√

2 /∈ Q).

Squaring a number always makes it larger: ∀x ∈ R, x2 > x .

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 5 / 33

Mathematical Statements

The writing and reading maths workshop covered some shorthand notation to replacecommon mathematical words and phrases. Here is another one:

“∀” stands for “for all” or “for every possible value of”.

We can use this to shorten written statements:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater: ∀x ∈ R, x + 1 > x .

The square root of two is irrational:

√2 ∈ Q (or

√2 /∈ Q).

Squaring a number always makes it larger: ∀x ∈ R, x2 > x .

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 5 / 33

Mathematical Statements

The writing and reading maths workshop covered some shorthand notation to replacecommon mathematical words and phrases. Here is another one:

“∀” stands for “for all” or “for every possible value of”.

We can use this to shorten written statements:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater: ∀x ∈ R, x + 1 > x .

The square root of two is irrational:√

2 ∈ Q

(or√

2 /∈ Q).

Squaring a number always makes it larger: ∀x ∈ R, x2 > x .

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 5 / 33

Mathematical Statements

The writing and reading maths workshop covered some shorthand notation to replacecommon mathematical words and phrases. Here is another one:

“∀” stands for “for all” or “for every possible value of”.

We can use this to shorten written statements:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater: ∀x ∈ R, x + 1 > x .

The square root of two is irrational:√

2 ∈ Q (or√

2 /∈ Q).

Squaring a number always makes it larger: ∀x ∈ R, x2 > x .

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 5 / 33

Mathematical Statements

The writing and reading maths workshop covered some shorthand notation to replacecommon mathematical words and phrases. Here is another one:

“∀” stands for “for all” or “for every possible value of”.

We can use this to shorten written statements:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater: ∀x ∈ R, x + 1 > x .

The square root of two is irrational:√

2 ∈ Q (or√

2 /∈ Q).

Squaring a number always makes it larger: ∀x ∈ R

, x2 > x .

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 5 / 33

Mathematical Statements

The writing and reading maths workshop covered some shorthand notation to replacecommon mathematical words and phrases. Here is another one:

“∀” stands for “for all” or “for every possible value of”.

We can use this to shorten written statements:

Adding one to a number always makes the number greater: ∀x ∈ R, x + 1 > x .

The square root of two is irrational:√

2 ∈ Q (or√

2 /∈ Q).

Squaring a number always makes it larger: ∀x ∈ R, x2 > x .

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 5 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

Statements can be combined, using logical connectives, to form compound statements.

Here we let A and B represent statements.

“and”

The compound statement “A and B” (denoted A ∧ B) is true if A is true and B is true.

The statement “It is raining and my socks are wet” is only true if both statements “it israining” and “my socks are wet” are true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 6 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

Statements can be combined, using logical connectives, to form compound statements.

Here we let A and B represent statements.

“and”

The compound statement “A and B” (denoted A ∧ B) is true if A is true and B is true.

The statement “It is raining and my socks are wet” is only true if both statements “it israining” and “my socks are wet” are true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 6 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

Statements can be combined, using logical connectives, to form compound statements.

Here we let A and B represent statements.

“and”

The compound statement “A and B” (denoted A ∧ B) is true if A is true and B is true.

The statement “It is raining and my socks are wet” is only true if both statements “it israining” and “my socks are wet” are true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 6 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

Statements can be combined, using logical connectives, to form compound statements.

Here we let A and B represent statements.

“and”

The compound statement “A and B” (denoted A ∧ B) is true if A is true and B is true.

The statement “It is raining and my socks are wet” is only true if both statements “it israining” and “my socks are wet” are true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 6 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

Statements can be combined, using logical connectives, to form compound statements.

Here we let A and B represent statements.

“and”

The compound statement “A and B” (denoted A ∧ B) is true if A is true and B is true.

The statement “It is raining and my socks are wet” is only true if both statements “it israining” and “my socks are wet” are true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 6 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“or”

The compound statement “A or B” (denoted A ∨ B) is true if at least one of A or B istrue.

The statement “I want to go to the movies or I want to go to the party” is true if one ofthe following holds:

I want to go to the movies

I want to go to the party

I want to go the movies and I want to go to the party

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 7 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“or”

The compound statement “A or B” (denoted A ∨ B) is true if at least one of A or B istrue.

The statement “I want to go to the movies or I want to go to the party” is true if one ofthe following holds:

I want to go to the movies

I want to go to the party

I want to go the movies and I want to go to the party

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 7 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“or”

The compound statement “A or B” (denoted A ∨ B) is true if at least one of A or B istrue.

The statement “I want to go to the movies or I want to go to the party” is true if one ofthe following holds:

I want to go to the movies

I want to go to the party

I want to go the movies and I want to go to the party

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 7 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“or”

The compound statement “A or B” (denoted A ∨ B) is true if at least one of A or B istrue.

The statement “I want to go to the movies or I want to go to the party” is true if one ofthe following holds:

I want to go to the movies

I want to go to the party

I want to go the movies and I want to go to the party

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 7 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“or”

The compound statement “A or B” (denoted A ∨ B) is true if at least one of A or B istrue.

The statement “I want to go to the movies or I want to go to the party” is true if one ofthe following holds:

I want to go to the movies

I want to go to the party

I want to go the movies and I want to go to the party

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 7 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“or”

The compound statement “A or B” (denoted A ∨ B) is true if at least one of A or B istrue.

The statement “I want to go to the movies or I want to go to the party” is true if one ofthe following holds:

I want to go to the movies

I want to go to the party

I want to go the movies and I want to go to the party

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 7 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“not”

The statement “not A” (denoted ∼ A), called the negation of A, is true if A is false.

Let A be the statement “π equals 3”. Then ∼ A is the statement π 6= 3. This is true ifthe statement “π equals 3” is false.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 8 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“not”

The statement “not A” (denoted ∼ A), called the negation of A, is true if A is false.

Let A be the statement “π equals 3”. Then ∼ A is the statement π 6= 3. This is true ifthe statement “π equals 3” is false.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 8 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“not”

The statement “not A” (denoted ∼ A), called the negation of A, is true if A is false.

Let A be the statement “π equals 3”. Then ∼ A is the statement π 6= 3. This is true ifthe statement “π equals 3” is false.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 8 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“implication”

The statement “If A is true, then B is true” (denoted A⇒ B) is a true statement exceptwhen A is true and B is false.

Note: If A is false, B could still be true.

Consider the statement “If I am rich, then I have at least $10”. This is of the formA⇒ B, where A is the statement “I am rich” and B is the statement “I have at least

$10”.

Note: If A⇒ B is true, the reverse implication B ⇒ A may not be.

I know lots of people that have at least $10 but are not rich!

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 9 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“implication”

The statement “If A is true, then B is true” (denoted A⇒ B) is a true statement exceptwhen A is true and B is false.

Note: If A is false, B could still be true.

Consider the statement “If I am rich, then I have at least $10”. This is of the formA⇒ B, where A is the statement “I am rich” and B is the statement “I have at least

$10”.

Note: If A⇒ B is true, the reverse implication B ⇒ A may not be.

I know lots of people that have at least $10 but are not rich!

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 9 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“implication”

The statement “If A is true, then B is true” (denoted A⇒ B) is a true statement exceptwhen A is true and B is false.

Note: If A is false, B could still be true.

Consider the statement “If I am rich, then I have at least $10”. This is of the formA⇒ B, where A is the statement “I am rich” and B is the statement “I have at least

$10”.

Note: If A⇒ B is true, the reverse implication B ⇒ A may not be.

I know lots of people that have at least $10 but are not rich!

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 9 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“implication”

The statement “If A is true, then B is true” (denoted A⇒ B) is a true statement exceptwhen A is true and B is false.

Note: If A is false, B could still be true.

Consider the statement “If I am rich, then I have at least $10”. This is of the formA⇒ B, where A is the statement “I am rich” and B is the statement “I have at least

$10”.

Note: If A⇒ B is true, the reverse implication B ⇒ A may not be.

I know lots of people that have at least $10 but are not rich!

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 9 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“implication”

The statement “If A is true, then B is true” (denoted A⇒ B) is a true statement exceptwhen A is true and B is false.

Note: If A is false, B could still be true.

Consider the statement “If I am rich, then I have at least $10”. This is of the formA⇒ B, where A is the statement “I am rich” and B is the statement “I have at least

$10”.

Note: If A⇒ B is true, the reverse implication B ⇒ A may not be.

I know lots of people that have at least $10 but are not rich!

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 9 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“implication”

The statement “If A is true, then B is true” (denoted A⇒ B) is a true statement exceptwhen A is true and B is false.

Note: If A is false, B could still be true.

Consider the statement “If I am rich, then I have at least $10”. This is of the formA⇒ B, where A is the statement “I am rich” and B is the statement “I have at least

$10”.

Note: If A⇒ B is true, the reverse implication B ⇒ A may not be.

I know lots of people that have at least $10 but are not rich!

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 9 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“double implication”

The statement “A is true if and only if B is true” (denoted A⇐⇒ B) means A⇒ B andB ⇒ A. That is, the statements imply each other!

Sometimes we say that A and B are equivalent.

Let A be the statement “x equals zero”, and let B be the statement “x2 equals zero”.

Then we have that A⇐⇒ B as we have both A⇒ B and B ⇒ A.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 10 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“double implication”

The statement “A is true if and only if B is true” (denoted A⇐⇒ B) means A⇒ B andB ⇒ A. That is, the statements imply each other!

Sometimes we say that A and B are equivalent.

Let A be the statement “x equals zero”, and let B be the statement “x2 equals zero”.

Then we have that A⇐⇒ B as we have both A⇒ B and B ⇒ A.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 10 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“double implication”

The statement “A is true if and only if B is true” (denoted A⇐⇒ B) means A⇒ B andB ⇒ A. That is, the statements imply each other!

Sometimes we say that A and B are equivalent.

Let A be the statement “x equals zero”, and let B be the statement “x2 equals zero”.

Then we have that A⇐⇒ B as we have both A⇒ B and B ⇒ A.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 10 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“double implication”

The statement “A is true if and only if B is true” (denoted A⇐⇒ B) means A⇒ B andB ⇒ A. That is, the statements imply each other!

Sometimes we say that A and B are equivalent.

Let A be the statement “x equals zero”, and let B be the statement “x2 equals zero”.

Then we have that A⇐⇒ B as we have both A⇒ B and B ⇒ A.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 10 / 33

Compound Statements and Connectives

“double implication”

The statement “A is true if and only if B is true” (denoted A⇐⇒ B) means A⇒ B andB ⇒ A. That is, the statements imply each other!

Sometimes we say that A and B are equivalent.

Let A be the statement “x equals zero”, and let B be the statement “x2 equals zero”.

Then we have that A⇐⇒ B as we have both A⇒ B and B ⇒ A.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 10 / 33

Exercise

Consider the following two statements:

A : x2 = 9

B : x = 3

Which of the following are true?

A⇒ B

×

B ⇒ A

X

A⇐⇒ B

×

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 11 / 33

Exercise

Consider the following two statements:

A : x2 = 9

B : x = 3

Which of the following are true?

A⇒ B ×B ⇒ A X

A⇐⇒ B ×

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 11 / 33

Exercise

Consider the following two statements:

A : x is an even number

B : x + 2 is an even number

Which of the following are true?

A⇒ B

X

B ⇒ A

X

A⇐⇒ B

X

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 12 / 33

Exercise

Consider the following two statements:

A : x is an even number

B : x + 2 is an even number

Which of the following are true?

A⇒ B X

B ⇒ A X

A⇐⇒ B

X

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 12 / 33

Exercise

Consider the following two statements:

A : x is an even number

B : x + 2 is an even number

Which of the following are true?

A⇒ B X

B ⇒ A X

A⇐⇒ BX

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 12 / 33

The Converse

“converse”

B ⇒ A is the converse of A⇒ B. It’s as easy as reversing the direction of the arrow!

The truth or falsity of a converse can not be inferred from the truth or falsity of theoriginal statement.

For example,

x = 2⇒ x2 = 4

is true, but . . . its converse

x2 = 4⇒ x = 2

is false, because x could be equal to −2.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 13 / 33

The Converse

“converse”

B ⇒ A is the converse of A⇒ B. It’s as easy as reversing the direction of the arrow!

The truth or falsity of a converse can not be inferred from the truth or falsity of theoriginal statement.

For example,

x = 2⇒ x2 = 4

is true, but . . . its converse

x2 = 4⇒ x = 2

is false, because x could be equal to −2.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 13 / 33

The Converse

“converse”

B ⇒ A is the converse of A⇒ B. It’s as easy as reversing the direction of the arrow!

The truth or falsity of a converse can not be inferred from the truth or falsity of theoriginal statement.

For example,

x = 2⇒ x2 = 4

is true, but . . . its converse

x2 = 4⇒ x = 2

is false, because x could be equal to −2.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 13 / 33

The Converse

“converse”

B ⇒ A is the converse of A⇒ B. It’s as easy as reversing the direction of the arrow!

The truth or falsity of a converse can not be inferred from the truth or falsity of theoriginal statement.

For example,

x = 2⇒ x2 = 4

is true, but . . .

its converse

x2 = 4⇒ x = 2

is false, because x could be equal to −2.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 13 / 33

The Converse

“converse”

B ⇒ A is the converse of A⇒ B. It’s as easy as reversing the direction of the arrow!

The truth or falsity of a converse can not be inferred from the truth or falsity of theoriginal statement.

For example,

x = 2⇒ x2 = 4

is true, but . . . its converse

x2 = 4⇒ x = 2

is false, because

x could be equal to −2.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 13 / 33

The Converse

“converse”

B ⇒ A is the converse of A⇒ B. It’s as easy as reversing the direction of the arrow!

The truth or falsity of a converse can not be inferred from the truth or falsity of theoriginal statement.

For example,

x = 2⇒ x2 = 4

is true, but . . . its converse

x2 = 4⇒ x = 2

is false, because x could be equal to −2.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 13 / 33

The Contrapositive

“contrapositive”

∼ B ⇒∼ A is the contrapositive of A⇒ B.

A statement and its contrapositive are logically equivalent. This means that if one istrue, then the other is true!

For example,

x = 2⇒ x2 = 4

is true, and its contrapositive

x2 6= 4⇒ x 6= 2

is true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 14 / 33

The Contrapositive

“contrapositive”

∼ B ⇒∼ A is the contrapositive of A⇒ B.

A statement and its contrapositive are logically equivalent. This means that if one istrue, then the other is true!

For example,

x = 2⇒ x2 = 4

is true, and its contrapositive

x2 6= 4⇒ x 6= 2

is true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 14 / 33

The Contrapositive

“contrapositive”

∼ B ⇒∼ A is the contrapositive of A⇒ B.

A statement and its contrapositive are logically equivalent. This means that if one istrue, then the other is true!

For example,

x = 2⇒ x2 = 4

is true, and its contrapositive

x2 6= 4⇒ x 6= 2

is true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 14 / 33

The Contrapositive

“contrapositive”

∼ B ⇒∼ A is the contrapositive of A⇒ B.

A statement and its contrapositive are logically equivalent. This means that if one istrue, then the other is true!

For example,

x = 2⇒ x2 = 4

is true, and its contrapositive

x2 6= 4⇒ x 6= 2

is true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 14 / 33

The Contrapositive

“contrapositive”

∼ B ⇒∼ A is the contrapositive of A⇒ B.

A statement and its contrapositive are logically equivalent. This means that if one istrue, then the other is true!

For example,

x = 2⇒ x2 = 4

is true, and its contrapositive

x2 6= 4⇒

x 6= 2

is true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 14 / 33

The Contrapositive

“contrapositive”

∼ B ⇒∼ A is the contrapositive of A⇒ B.

A statement and its contrapositive are logically equivalent. This means that if one istrue, then the other is true!

For example,

x = 2⇒ x2 = 4

is true, and its contrapositive

x2 6= 4⇒ x 6= 2

is true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 14 / 33

The Contrapositive: Example

Consider the statement:

x ≥ 2⇒ x2 > 1

The contrapositive of the above is the statement:

x2 ≤ 1⇒ x < 2

Both are true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 15 / 33

The Contrapositive: Example

Consider the statement:

x ≥ 2⇒ x2 > 1

The contrapositive of the above is the statement:

x2 ≤ 1

⇒ x < 2

Both are true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 15 / 33

The Contrapositive: Example

Consider the statement:

x ≥ 2⇒ x2 > 1

The contrapositive of the above is the statement:

x2 ≤ 1⇒ x < 2

Both are true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 15 / 33

Necessary and Sufficient Conditions

If the statement A⇒ B is true then we say “A is a sufficient condition for B”, i.e. thetruth of A is sufficient to guarantee that B is true.

Example: “I am rich” ⇒ “I have at least $10” so if “I am rich” (A) is true, it guaranteesthat “I have at least $10” (B).

We also say that “B is a necessary condition for A”, i.e., if B is false then A is false.

Example: If “I have at least $10” (B) is false, then I can’t be rich (A).

If the statement A⇐⇒ B is true, then we say that “A is necessary and sufficient for B”.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 16 / 33

Necessary and Sufficient Conditions

If the statement A⇒ B is true then we say “A is a sufficient condition for B”, i.e. thetruth of A is sufficient to guarantee that B is true.

Example: “I am rich” ⇒ “I have at least $10” so if “I am rich” (A) is true, it guaranteesthat “I have at least $10” (B).

We also say that “B is a necessary condition for A”, i.e., if B is false then A is false.

Example: If “I have at least $10” (B) is false, then I can’t be rich (A).

If the statement A⇐⇒ B is true, then we say that “A is necessary and sufficient for B”.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 16 / 33

Necessary and Sufficient Conditions

If the statement A⇒ B is true then we say “A is a sufficient condition for B”, i.e. thetruth of A is sufficient to guarantee that B is true.

Example: “I am rich” ⇒ “I have at least $10” so if “I am rich” (A) is true, it guaranteesthat “I have at least $10” (B).

We also say that “B is a necessary condition for A”, i.e., if B is false then A is false.

Example: If “I have at least $10” (B) is false, then I can’t be rich (A).

If the statement A⇐⇒ B is true, then we say that “A is necessary and sufficient for B”.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 16 / 33

Necessary and Sufficient Conditions

If the statement A⇒ B is true then we say “A is a sufficient condition for B”, i.e. thetruth of A is sufficient to guarantee that B is true.

Example: “I am rich” ⇒ “I have at least $10” so if “I am rich” (A) is true, it guaranteesthat “I have at least $10” (B).

We also say that “B is a necessary condition for A”, i.e., if B is false then A is false.

Example: If “I have at least $10” (B) is false, then I can’t be rich (A).

If the statement A⇐⇒ B is true, then we say that “A is necessary and sufficient for B”.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 16 / 33

Necessary and Sufficient Conditions

If the statement A⇒ B is true then we say “A is a sufficient condition for B”, i.e. thetruth of A is sufficient to guarantee that B is true.

Example: “I am rich” ⇒ “I have at least $10” so if “I am rich” (A) is true, it guaranteesthat “I have at least $10” (B).

We also say that “B is a necessary condition for A”, i.e., if B is false then A is false.

Example: If “I have at least $10” (B) is false, then I can’t be rich (A).

If the statement A⇐⇒ B is true, then we say that “A is necessary and sufficient for B”.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 16 / 33

Proof

Some might say that mathematics is a “toolkit of truths”.

Research in mathematics consists of increasing the number of tools in our toolkit.

The way that we prove new tools, is to show that they are implications of tools which arealready in our toolkit.

There are two main kinds of tool: axioms and theorems.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 17 / 33

Proof

Some might say that mathematics is a “toolkit of truths”.

Research in mathematics consists of increasing the number of tools in our toolkit.

The way that we prove new tools, is to show that they are implications of tools which arealready in our toolkit.

There are two main kinds of tool: axioms and theorems.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 17 / 33

Proof

Some might say that mathematics is a “toolkit of truths”.

Research in mathematics consists of increasing the number of tools in our toolkit.

The way that we prove new tools, is to show that they are implications of tools which arealready in our toolkit.

There are two main kinds of tool: axioms and theorems.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 17 / 33

Proof

Some might say that mathematics is a “toolkit of truths”.

Research in mathematics consists of increasing the number of tools in our toolkit.

The way that we prove new tools, is to show that they are implications of tools which arealready in our toolkit.

There are two main kinds of tool: axioms and theorems.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 17 / 33

Axioms

Axioms are statements that are simply accepted as being true without the need for proof.This is because they are so fundamental that we feel everyone must accept them.

Here are some examples:

Euclid’s First Axiom: There is only one straight line that can be drawn to join twospecific points in space.

Well Ordering Principle: Every non-empty set of positive integers contains a smallestelement.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 18 / 33

Axioms

Axioms are statements that are simply accepted as being true without the need for proof.This is because they are so fundamental that we feel everyone must accept them.

Here are some examples:

Euclid’s First Axiom: There is only one straight line that can be drawn to join twospecific points in space.

Well Ordering Principle: Every non-empty set of positive integers contains a smallestelement.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 18 / 33

Axioms

Axioms are statements that are simply accepted as being true without the need for proof.This is because they are so fundamental that we feel everyone must accept them.

Here are some examples:

Euclid’s First Axiom: There is only one straight line that can be drawn to join twospecific points in space.

Well Ordering Principle: Every non-empty set of positive integers contains a smallestelement.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 18 / 33

Axioms

Axioms are statements that are simply accepted as being true without the need for proof.This is because they are so fundamental that we feel everyone must accept them.

Here are some examples:

Euclid’s First Axiom: There is only one straight line that can be drawn to join twospecific points in space.

Well Ordering Principle: Every non-empty set of positive integers contains a smallestelement.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 18 / 33

Theorems

Theorems are statements that can be proved to be true using accepted definitions,axioms, and other already proven theorems.

The truth of the theorem is arrived at by reasoning from other accepted truths.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 19 / 33

Theorems

Theorems are statements that can be proved to be true using accepted definitions,axioms, and other already proven theorems.

The truth of the theorem is arrived at by reasoning from other accepted truths.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 19 / 33

Deductive Proofs using Algebra

Look what happens when we multiply two even numbers together:

4× 6 = 24

8× 2 = 16

4× 4 = 16

40× 8 = 320

We always seem to get an even number.

However, we can not conclude that the statement “the product of any two even numbersis even” is a true statement, simply because we have seen a few examples.

We need to prove this theorem completely. This means that we have to present aconvincing argument.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 20 / 33

Deductive Proofs using Algebra

Look what happens when we multiply two even numbers together:

4× 6 = 24

8× 2 = 16

4× 4 = 16

40× 8 = 320

We always seem to get an even number.

However, we can not conclude that the statement “the product of any two even numbersis even” is a true statement, simply because we have seen a few examples.

We need to prove this theorem completely. This means that we have to present aconvincing argument.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 20 / 33

Deductive Proofs using Algebra

Look what happens when we multiply two even numbers together:

4× 6 = 24

8× 2 = 16

4× 4 = 16

40× 8 = 320

We always seem to get an even number.

However, we can not conclude that the statement “the product of any two even numbersis even” is a true statement, simply because we have seen a few examples.

We need to prove this theorem completely. This means that we have to present aconvincing argument.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 20 / 33

Deductive Proofs using Algebra

Look what happens when we multiply two even numbers together:

4× 6 = 24

8× 2 = 16

4× 4 = 16

40× 8 = 320

We always seem to get an even number.

However, we can not conclude that the statement “the product of any two even numbersis even” is a true statement, simply because we have seen a few examples.

We need to prove this theorem completely. This means that we have to present aconvincing argument.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 20 / 33

Deductive Proofs using Algebra

Look what happens when we multiply two even numbers together:

4× 6 = 24

8× 2 = 16

4× 4 = 16

40× 8 = 320

We always seem to get an even number.

However, we can not conclude that the statement “the product of any two even numbersis even” is a true statement, simply because we have seen a few examples.

We need to prove this theorem completely. This means that we have to present aconvincing argument.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 20 / 33

Deductive Proofs using Algebra

Look what happens when we multiply two even numbers together:

4× 6 = 24

8× 2 = 16

4× 4 = 16

40× 8 = 320

We always seem to get an even number.

However, we can not conclude that the statement “the product of any two even numbersis even” is a true statement, simply because we have seen a few examples.

We need to prove this theorem completely. This means that we have to present aconvincing argument.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 20 / 33

Deductive Proofs using Algebra

Look what happens when we multiply two even numbers together:

4× 6 = 24

8× 2 = 16

4× 4 = 16

40× 8 = 320

We always seem to get an even number.

However, we can not conclude that the statement “the product of any two even numbersis even” is a true statement, simply because we have seen a few examples.

We need to prove this theorem completely. This means that we have to present aconvincing argument.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 20 / 33

Deductive Proofs using Algebra

We want to show that for any two even numbers we choose, their product is also even.

However, we don’t want to write out every single choice of two even numbers as this isimpossible!

Instead, we use expressions which represent arbitrary even numbers.

By definition, even numbers are multiples of two, that is, any even number is the productof 2 and some other integer.

Hence, we can represent an even number by the expression 2n, where n is an integer.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 21 / 33

Deductive Proofs using Algebra

We want to show that for any two even numbers we choose, their product is also even.

However, we don’t want to write out every single choice of two even numbers as this isimpossible!

Instead, we use expressions which represent arbitrary even numbers.

By definition, even numbers are multiples of two, that is, any even number is the productof 2 and some other integer.

Hence, we can represent an even number by the expression 2n, where n is an integer.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 21 / 33

Deductive Proofs using Algebra

We want to show that for any two even numbers we choose, their product is also even.

However, we don’t want to write out every single choice of two even numbers as this isimpossible!

Instead, we use expressions which represent arbitrary even numbers.

By definition, even numbers are multiples of two, that is, any even number is the productof 2 and some other integer.

Hence, we can represent an even number by the expression 2n, where n is an integer.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 21 / 33

Deductive Proofs using Algebra

We want to show that for any two even numbers we choose, their product is also even.

However, we don’t want to write out every single choice of two even numbers as this isimpossible!

Instead, we use expressions which represent arbitrary even numbers.

By definition, even numbers are multiples of two, that is, any even number is the productof 2 and some other integer.

Hence, we can represent an even number by the expression 2n, where n is an integer.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 21 / 33

Deductive Proofs using Algebra

We want to show that for any two even numbers we choose, their product is also even.

However, we don’t want to write out every single choice of two even numbers as this isimpossible!

Instead, we use expressions which represent arbitrary even numbers.

By definition, even numbers are multiples of two, that is, any even number is the productof 2 and some other integer.

Hence, we can represent an even number by the expression 2n, where n is an integer.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 21 / 33

Proof: even x even = even

Here is our proof. Take two even numbers:

2n, 2m

Multiply them together:

(2n)(2m)

We can simplify and express the above product in a clever way!

(2n)(2m) = 4nm = 2(2nm)

But 2(2nm) is really just the product of 2 and an integer (ie. 2nm)! So this product isclearly even!

Note: We usually denote the end of a proof with a box.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 22 / 33

Proof: even x even = even

Here is our proof. Take two even numbers:

2n, 2m

Multiply them together:

(2n)(2m)

We can simplify and express the above product in a clever way!

(2n)(2m) = 4nm = 2(2nm)

But 2(2nm) is really just the product of 2 and an integer (ie. 2nm)! So this product isclearly even!

Note: We usually denote the end of a proof with a box.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 22 / 33

Proof: even x even = even

Here is our proof. Take two even numbers:

2n, 2m

Multiply them together:

(2n)(2m)

We can simplify and express the above product in a clever way!

(2n)(2m) = 4nm

= 2(2nm)

But 2(2nm) is really just the product of 2 and an integer (ie. 2nm)! So this product isclearly even!

Note: We usually denote the end of a proof with a box.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 22 / 33

Proof: even x even = even

Here is our proof. Take two even numbers:

2n, 2m

Multiply them together:

(2n)(2m)

We can simplify and express the above product in a clever way!

(2n)(2m) = 4nm = 2(2nm)

But 2(2nm) is really just the product of 2 and an integer (ie. 2nm)! So this product isclearly even!

Note: We usually denote the end of a proof with a box.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 22 / 33

Proof: even x even = even

Here is our proof. Take two even numbers:

2n, 2m

Multiply them together:

(2n)(2m)

We can simplify and express the above product in a clever way!

(2n)(2m) = 4nm = 2(2nm)

But 2(2nm) is really just the product of 2 and an integer (ie. 2nm)! So this product isclearly even!

Note: We usually denote the end of a proof with a box.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 22 / 33

Proof: even x even = even

Here is our proof. Take two even numbers:

2n, 2m

Multiply them together:

(2n)(2m)

We can simplify and express the above product in a clever way!

(2n)(2m) = 4nm = 2(2nm)

But 2(2nm) is really just the product of 2 and an integer (ie. 2nm)! So this product isclearly even!

Note: We usually denote the end of a proof with a box.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 22 / 33

Proof: even x even = even

Here is our proof. Take two even numbers:

2n, 2m

Multiply them together:

(2n)(2m)

We can simplify and express the above product in a clever way!

(2n)(2m) = 4nm = 2(2nm)

But 2(2nm) is really just the product of 2 and an integer (ie. 2nm)! So this product isclearly even! �

Note: We usually denote the end of a proof with a box.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 22 / 33

Proof: odd + odd = even

Let’s prove that the sum of two odd numbers is even. Here is our proof.

Take two odd numbers:

2n + 1, 2m + 1

Add them together:

2n + 1 + 2m + 1

We can simplify and express the above in the same clever way:

2n + 1 + 2m + 1 = 2n + 2m + 2 = 2(n + m + 1)

We have managed to write the sum of two odd numbers as a number which is a multipleof 2! So the sum of two odd numbers must be an even number. �

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 23 / 33

Proof: odd + odd = even

Let’s prove that the sum of two odd numbers is even. Here is our proof.

Take two odd numbers:

2n + 1, 2m + 1

Add them together:

2n + 1 + 2m + 1

We can simplify and express the above in the same clever way:

2n + 1 + 2m + 1 = 2n + 2m + 2 = 2(n + m + 1)

We have managed to write the sum of two odd numbers as a number which is a multipleof 2! So the sum of two odd numbers must be an even number. �

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 23 / 33

Proof: odd + odd = even

Let’s prove that the sum of two odd numbers is even. Here is our proof.

Take two odd numbers:

2n + 1, 2m + 1

Add them together:

2n + 1 + 2m + 1

We can simplify and express the above in the same clever way:

2n + 1 + 2m + 1 = 2n + 2m + 2 = 2(n + m + 1)

We have managed to write the sum of two odd numbers as a number which is a multipleof 2! So the sum of two odd numbers must be an even number. �

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 23 / 33

Proof: odd + odd = even

Let’s prove that the sum of two odd numbers is even. Here is our proof.

Take two odd numbers:

2n + 1, 2m + 1

Add them together:

2n + 1 + 2m + 1

We can simplify and express the above in the same clever way:

2n + 1 + 2m + 1 = 2n + 2m + 2

= 2(n + m + 1)

We have managed to write the sum of two odd numbers as a number which is a multipleof 2! So the sum of two odd numbers must be an even number. �

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 23 / 33

Proof: odd + odd = even

Let’s prove that the sum of two odd numbers is even. Here is our proof.

Take two odd numbers:

2n + 1, 2m + 1

Add them together:

2n + 1 + 2m + 1

We can simplify and express the above in the same clever way:

2n + 1 + 2m + 1 = 2n + 2m + 2 = 2(n + m + 1)

We have managed to write the sum of two odd numbers as a number which is a multipleof 2! So the sum of two odd numbers must be an even number. �

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 23 / 33

Proof: odd + odd = even

Let’s prove that the sum of two odd numbers is even. Here is our proof.

Take two odd numbers:

2n + 1, 2m + 1

Add them together:

2n + 1 + 2m + 1

We can simplify and express the above in the same clever way:

2n + 1 + 2m + 1 = 2n + 2m + 2 = 2(n + m + 1)

We have managed to write the sum of two odd numbers as a number which is a multipleof 2! So the sum of two odd numbers must be an even number.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 23 / 33

Proof: odd + odd = even

Let’s prove that the sum of two odd numbers is even. Here is our proof.

Take two odd numbers:

2n + 1, 2m + 1

Add them together:

2n + 1 + 2m + 1

We can simplify and express the above in the same clever way:

2n + 1 + 2m + 1 = 2n + 2m + 2 = 2(n + m + 1)

We have managed to write the sum of two odd numbers as a number which is a multipleof 2! So the sum of two odd numbers must be an even number. �

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 23 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof

Theorem: If statement(s) is/are true, show that statement is true.

Proof: statement(s) given

statement to be proved

clever, legal steps

clever, legal steps

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 24 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof

Theorem: If statement(s) is/are true, show that statement is true.

Proof: statement(s) given

statement to be proved

clever, legal steps

clever, legal steps

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 24 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof

Theorem: If statement(s) is/are true, show that statement is true.

Proof: statement(s) given

statement to be proved

clever, legal steps

clever, legal steps

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 24 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof

Theorem: If statement(s) is/are true, show that statement is true.

Proof: statement(s) given

statement to be proved

clever, legal steps

clever, legal steps

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 24 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof

Theorem: If statement(s) is/are true, show that statement is true.

Proof: statement(s) given

statement to be proved

clever, legal steps

clever, legal steps

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 24 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TExpress the red and blue phrases algebraically.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof:

We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TExpress the red and blue phrases algebraically.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know

A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TExpress the red and blue phrases algebraically.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric

and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TExpress the red and blue phrases algebraically.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TExpress the red and blue phrases algebraically.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TExpress the red and blue phrases algebraically.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

clever, legal steps

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

Proofs are hard because “clever” steps may be hard to spot. Here are some tips.(A−1

)TAdrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TTip: Express the red and blue phrases algebraically.

(A−1

)TAdrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A

and A−1 exists

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TTip: Express the red and blue phrases algebraically.

(A−1

)TAdrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TTip: Express the red and blue phrases algebraically.

(A−1

)TAdrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

(A−1

)T=A−1

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TTip: Express the red and blue phrases algebraically.

(A−1

)TAdrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

(A−1

)T=A−1

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TWe need to start with an equation involving A−1 . . .

(A−1

)TAdrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

(A−1

)T=A−1

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TWe need to start with an equation involving A−1 . . .

(A−1

)TAdrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

(A−1

)T=A−1

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TNow to get transpose involved . . .

(A−1

)TAdrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

(A−1

)T=A−1

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TNow to get transpose involved . . .

(A−1

)TAdrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

(A−1

)T=A−1

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

We need to get an(A−1

)Tterm.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

(A−1

)T=A−1

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

We need to get an(A−1

)Tterm.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

(A−1

)T=A−1

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TExpress the red and blue phrases algebraically.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

(A−1

)T=A−1

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TExpress the red and blue phrases algebraically.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

⇒ (A−1

)T=A−1

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �

(A−1

)TExpress the red and blue phrases algebraically.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

⇒ (A−1

)T=A−1

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

(A−1

)TExpress the red and blue phrases algebraically.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Structure of algebraic deductive proof: example

(This example involves matrices and is similar to proofs in MATH1001.)

Theorem: If A is a symmetric, invertible matrix then A−1 is also symmetric.

Proof: We know A is symmetric and A is invertible

A−1 is symmetric

AT = A and A−1 exists

⇒ (A−1

)T=A−1

⇒ AA−1= I (from defn of inverse)

⇒(AA−1

)T= (I )T = I (transpose both sides)

⇒(A−1

)TAT = I (a property of transpose)

⇒(A−1

)TA = I (known property of A)

⇒(A−1

)Tis the inverse of A by defn of inverse

∴ �(A−1

)TExpress the red and blue phrases algebraically.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 25 / 33

Proof or Counterexample

To prove that a statement is true, we need to construct a proof.

To show that a statement is false, we simply need to find a single counterexample whereit fails.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 26 / 33

Proof or Counterexample: Example

Consider the following statement:

Squaring a number makes it larger.

This statement is false. To disprove it, we simply need to demonstrate one instancewhere it fails to be true.

We can see that if we square the number 1, we get 1, which is not larger.

So the above statement can not be true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 27 / 33

Proof or Counterexample: Example

Consider the following statement:

Squaring a number makes it larger.

This statement is false. To disprove it, we simply need to demonstrate one instancewhere it fails to be true.

We can see that if we square the number 1, we get 1, which is not larger.

So the above statement can not be true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 27 / 33

Proof or Counterexample: Example

Consider the following statement:

Squaring a number makes it larger.

This statement is false. To disprove it, we simply need to demonstrate one instancewhere it fails to be true.

We can see that if we square the number 1, we get 1, which is not larger.

So the above statement can not be true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 27 / 33

Proof or Counterexample: Example

Consider the following statement:

Squaring a number makes it larger.

This statement is false. To disprove it, we simply need to demonstrate one instancewhere it fails to be true.

We can see that if we square the number 1, we get 1, which is not larger.

So the above statement can not be true.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 27 / 33

Types of Proof: Contrapositives

There are many common types of proof. We have already seen deductive proofs usingalgebra.

We know that a statement is true, if and only if its contrapositive is true. Sometimes itturns out that it’s easier to prove the contrapositive of a statement rather than the

original statement itself. This is useful!

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 28 / 33

Types of Proof: Contrapositives

There are many common types of proof. We have already seen deductive proofs usingalgebra.

We know that a statement is true, if and only if its contrapositive is true. Sometimes itturns out that it’s easier to prove the contrapositive of a statement rather than the

original statement itself. This is useful!

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 28 / 33

Types of Proof: Proof by Contradiction

Proof by Contradiction works as follows.

1 We are asked to prove that a statement is true.

2 We instead assume that the statement is false.

3 We then show that this assumption leads to a contradiction.

4 Reality forces the original statement to be true!

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 29 / 33

Types of Proof: Proof by Contradiction

Proof by Contradiction works as follows.

1 We are asked to prove that a statement is true.

2 We instead assume that the statement is false.

3 We then show that this assumption leads to a contradiction.

4 Reality forces the original statement to be true!

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 29 / 33

Types of Proof: Proof by Contradiction

Proof by Contradiction works as follows.

1 We are asked to prove that a statement is true.

2 We instead assume that the statement is false.

3 We then show that this assumption leads to a contradiction.

4 Reality forces the original statement to be true!

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 29 / 33

Types of Proof: Proof by Contradiction

Proof by Contradiction works as follows.

1 We are asked to prove that a statement is true.

2 We instead assume that the statement is false.

3 We then show that this assumption leads to a contradiction.

4 Reality forces the original statement to be true!

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 29 / 33

Types of Proof: Proof by Contradiction

Proof by Contradiction works as follows.

1 We are asked to prove that a statement is true.

2 We instead assume that the statement is false.

3 We then show that this assumption leads to a contradiction.

4 Reality forces the original statement to be true!

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 29 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

Use Proof by Contradiction to prove that√

2 is irrational. (Euclid 500BC)

Proof: Assume that√

2 is rational, that is,√

2 =a

bwhere a and b are integers with no

common factors. (If they did have common factors we could cancel them out.)

We want to show that this assumption yields a contradiction.

Squaring both sides of√

2 =a

bgives us:

2 =a2

b2

Rearranging this we get:

2b2 = a2

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 30 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

Use Proof by Contradiction to prove that√

2 is irrational. (Euclid 500BC)

Proof: Assume that√

2 is rational, that is,√

2 =a

bwhere a and b are integers with no

common factors. (If they did have common factors we could cancel them out.)

We want to show that this assumption yields a contradiction.

Squaring both sides of√

2 =a

bgives us:

2 =a2

b2

Rearranging this we get:

2b2 = a2

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 30 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

Use Proof by Contradiction to prove that√

2 is irrational. (Euclid 500BC)

Proof: Assume that√

2 is rational, that is,√

2 =a

bwhere a and b are integers with no

common factors. (If they did have common factors we could cancel them out.)

We want to show that this assumption yields a contradiction.

Squaring both sides of√

2 =a

bgives us:

2 =a2

b2

Rearranging this we get:

2b2 = a2

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 30 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

Use Proof by Contradiction to prove that√

2 is irrational. (Euclid 500BC)

Proof: Assume that√

2 is rational, that is,√

2 =a

bwhere a and b are integers with no

common factors. (If they did have common factors we could cancel them out.)

We want to show that this assumption yields a contradiction.

Squaring both sides of√

2 =a

bgives us:

2 =a2

b2

Rearranging this we get:

2b2 = a2

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 30 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

Use Proof by Contradiction to prove that√

2 is irrational. (Euclid 500BC)

Proof: Assume that√

2 is rational, that is,√

2 =a

bwhere a and b are integers with no

common factors. (If they did have common factors we could cancel them out.)

We want to show that this assumption yields a contradiction.

Squaring both sides of√

2 =a

bgives us:

2 =a2

b2

Rearranging this we get:

2b2 = a2

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 30 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

2b2 = a2

We see that a2 must be even, because it is the product of 2 and some integer b2.

Now, we proved earlier (ie. added to our maths toolkit) that the product of two evennumbers is even. It’s not hard to show that the product of two odd numbers is odd

(exercise) so, if a2 is even, then a must also be even.

As a is even, we can write a = 2n for some integer n. Substituting this in we get:

2b2 = (2n)2

Expanding the bracket we get:

2b2 = 4n2

Dividing by 2 we get:

b2 = 2n2

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 31 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

2b2 = a2

We see that a2 must be even, because it is the product of 2 and some integer b2.

Now, we proved earlier (ie. added to our maths toolkit) that the product of two evennumbers is even. It’s not hard to show that the product of two odd numbers is odd

(exercise) so, if a2 is even, then a must also be even.

As a is even, we can write a = 2n for some integer n. Substituting this in we get:

2b2 = (2n)2

Expanding the bracket we get:

2b2 = 4n2

Dividing by 2 we get:

b2 = 2n2

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 31 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

2b2 = a2

We see that a2 must be even, because it is the product of 2 and some integer b2.

Now, we proved earlier (ie. added to our maths toolkit) that the product of two evennumbers is even. It’s not hard to show that the product of two odd numbers is odd

(exercise) so, if a2 is even, then a must also be even.

As a is even, we can write a = 2n for some integer n. Substituting this in we get:

2b2 = (2n)2

Expanding the bracket we get:

2b2 = 4n2

Dividing by 2 we get:

b2 = 2n2

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 31 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

2b2 = a2

We see that a2 must be even, because it is the product of 2 and some integer b2.

Now, we proved earlier (ie. added to our maths toolkit) that the product of two evennumbers is even. It’s not hard to show that the product of two odd numbers is odd

(exercise) so, if a2 is even, then a must also be even.

As a is even, we can write a = 2n for some integer n. Substituting this in we get:

2b2 = (2n)2

Expanding the bracket we get:

2b2 = 4n2

Dividing by 2 we get:

b2 = 2n2

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 31 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

2b2 = a2

We see that a2 must be even, because it is the product of 2 and some integer b2.

Now, we proved earlier (ie. added to our maths toolkit) that the product of two evennumbers is even. It’s not hard to show that the product of two odd numbers is odd

(exercise) so, if a2 is even, then a must also be even.

As a is even, we can write a = 2n for some integer n. Substituting this in we get:

2b2 = (2n)2

Expanding the bracket we get:

2b2 = 4n2

Dividing by 2 we get:

b2 = 2n2

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 31 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

2b2 = a2

We see that a2 must be even, because it is the product of 2 and some integer b2.

Now, we proved earlier (ie. added to our maths toolkit) that the product of two evennumbers is even. It’s not hard to show that the product of two odd numbers is odd

(exercise) so, if a2 is even, then a must also be even.

As a is even, we can write a = 2n for some integer n. Substituting this in we get:

2b2 = (2n)2

Expanding the bracket we get:

2b2 = 4n2

Dividing by 2 we get:

b2 = 2n2

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 31 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

b2 = 2n2

Here we can see that b2 must also be even, as it is the product of 2 and some otherinteger n2. So b must also be even.

We have established that both a and b are even. This means they both are divisible by 2.

However, we assumed that they had no factors in common. Thus, we have reached acontradiction.

∴√

2 is irrational. �

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 32 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

b2 = 2n2

Here we can see that b2 must also be even, as it is the product of 2 and some otherinteger n2. So b must also be even.

We have established that both a and b are even. This means they both are divisible by 2.

However, we assumed that they had no factors in common. Thus, we have reached acontradiction.

∴√

2 is irrational. �

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 32 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

b2 = 2n2

Here we can see that b2 must also be even, as it is the product of 2 and some otherinteger n2. So b must also be even.

We have established that both a and b are even. This means they both are divisible by 2.

However, we assumed that they had no factors in common. Thus, we have reached acontradiction.

∴√

2 is irrational. �

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 32 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

b2 = 2n2

Here we can see that b2 must also be even, as it is the product of 2 and some otherinteger n2. So b must also be even.

We have established that both a and b are even. This means they both are divisible by 2.

However, we assumed that they had no factors in common. Thus, we have reached acontradiction.

∴√

2 is irrational. �

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 32 / 33

Proof by Contradiction: Example

b2 = 2n2

Here we can see that b2 must also be even, as it is the product of 2 and some otherinteger n2. So b must also be even.

We have established that both a and b are even. This means they both are divisible by 2.

However, we assumed that they had no factors in common. Thus, we have reached acontradiction.

∴√

2 is irrational. �

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 32 / 33

Using STUDYSmarter Resources

This resource was developed for UWA students by the STUDYSmarter team for thenumeracy program. When using our resources, please retain them in their original form

with both the STUDYSmarter heading and the UWA crest.

Adrian Dudek, Geoff Coates Logic and Proof 33 / 33

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