wiz-icon
MyQuestionIcon
MyQuestionIcon
1
You visited us 1 times! Enjoying our articles? Unlock Full Access!
Question

Let n be a fixed positive integer. Define a relation R in Z as follows a,bZ, aRb if and only if a - b is divisible by n. Show that R is an equivalence relation.

Open in App
Solution

Given that, a,bZ, aRb if and only if a - b is divisible by n.
Now,
I. Reflexive
aRa(aa) is divisible by n, which is true for any integer a as '0' is divisible by any positive integer.
Hence, R is reflexive.

II. Symmetric
aRb
ab is divisible by n.
(ba) is divisible by n.
(ba) is divisible by n.
bRa
Hence, R is symmetric.

III. Transitive

Let aRb and bRc
(ab) is divisible by n and (bc) is divisible by n
(ab)+(bc) is divisibly by n
(ac) is divisible by n
aRc
Hence, R is transitive.

So, R is an equivalence relation.


flag
Suggest Corrections
thumbs-up
1
Join BYJU'S Learning Program
similar_icon
Related Videos
thumbnail
lock
Types of Relations
MATHEMATICS
Watch in App
Join BYJU'S Learning Program
CrossIcon