Here are 16 propositions involving a real number $x$:
- $x\int^x_0 ydy < 0$
- $x=0 $
- $2\int^{x^2}_0ydy> x^2 $
- $x^3> 1 $
- $x> 1$
- $0< x< 1 $
- $x^2+4x+4 =0$
- $x> 2$
- $x< 0 $
- $|x|> 1$
- $x^2+x-2=0$
- $\cos(x/2)> \sin(x/2)$
- $x> 4$
- $\int^x_0 \cos y dy =0$
- $x=-2 $
- $x=1$
[Note: the trig functions are measured in radians]
By choosing $p$ and $q$ from this list, how many correct
mathematical statements of the form $p\Rightarrow q$ or
$p\Leftrightarrow q$ can you make?
It is possible to rearrange the statements into four statements
$p\Rightarrow q$ and four statements $p\Leftrightarrow q$. Can you
work out how to do this?
NOTES AND BACKGROUND
Logical thinking is at the heart of higher mathematics: In order to
construct clear, correct arguments in ever more complicated
situations mathematicians rely on clarity of language and logic.
Logic is also at the heart of computer programming and circuitry.
To find out more, look at the ideas surrounding the
Adding
Machine problem and related set of activities.