Let n be a fixed positive integer. Define a relation R in Z as follows ∀ a,b∈Z, aRb if and only if a - b is divisible by n. Show that R is an equivalence relation.
Given that, ∀a,b∈Z, aRb if and only if a - b is divisible by n.
Now,
I. Reflexive
aRa⇒(a−a) 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
⇒a−b is divisible by n.
⇒−(b−a) is divisible by n.
⇒(b−a) is divisible by n.
⇒bRa
Hence, R is symmetric.
III. Transitive
Let aRb and bRc
⇒(a−b) is divisible by n and (b−c) is divisible by n
⇒(a−b)+(b−c) is divisibly by n
⇒(a−c) is divisible by n
⇒aRc
Hence, R is transitive.
So, R is an equivalence relation.