Bicol University

COLLEGE OF SICENCE
Legazpi City

MODULE 2
SPEAKING MATHEMATICALLY

Compiled and designed by: Jaymar L. Bonaobra

Mathematics in the Modern World

 The Language of Mathematics

I. Introduction

This module is designed to introduce to students the language of mathematics – its

characteristics, vocabulary, rules, and conventions. It also tackles the language of sets,
relations and functions.

This is a self-learning material designed for students to work through independently,

with minimal to no supervision from a more knowledgeable individual or their instructor. To
enhance the learning experience, student-friendly language is used throughout, and
additional resources are provided via links. Students are encouraged to explore these
resources to ensure a deeper understanding and maximize their comprehension.

II. Learning Outcomes

At the end of this module, the students must be able to:

1. Discuss the language, symbols, and conventions of mathematics;

2. Explain the nature of mathematics as a language;

3. Perform operations on mathematical expressions correctly; and

4. Acknowledge that mathematics is useful as a language.

III. What do I need to know?

Basic English concepts – noun, verb, sentence, synonym, and elementary algebra and
logic.

IV. Core Idea

Like any language, mathematics has its own symbols, syntax, and rules.

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 The Language of Mathematics

Table of Contents
2.1. Mathematics as language -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------4
2.1.1. Mathematics v. English language-------------------------------------------------------------------------4
2.1.2. The Notion of Truth------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5
2.1.3. Conventions in Mathematics language-----------------------------------------------------------------5
2.1.4. Some Important Kinds of Mathematical Statements-------------------------------------------------6

2.2. The Language of Sets------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------7

2.2.1. Set--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------7
2.2.2. Empty set-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8
2.2.3. Equal set--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8
2.2.4. Subset-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------9
2.2.5. Set operation--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------9
2.2.5.1. Union---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------9
2.2.5.2. Intersection------------------------------------------------------------------------------------10
2.2.5.3 Difference---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------10
2.2.5.4 Complement------------------------------------------------------------------------------------11
2.2.5.5. Theorems---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------11
2.2.5.6. Cartesian Product-----------------------------------------------------------------------------12

2.3. The Language of Relation and Function---------------------------------------------------------------------------13

2.3.1 Relations------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------13
2.3.1.1 Relation as a subset---------------------------------------------------------------------------14
2.3.1.2. Notations---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------14
2.3.2. Functions-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------15
2.3.3. Ways to describe a function------------------------------------------------------------------------------16

2.4. Key takeaways------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------17

2.5 Assessment------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------18

2.6. Answer key-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------19

2.7. Do it yourself---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------20

2.8. References------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------21
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 The Language of Mathematics
In this section, you will learn the use of math as language--its own vocabulary, rules and
conventions, as well as the concepts of sets, relations and functions.

2. 1. Math as Language
The language of mathematics makes it easy for mathematicians to express their thoughts. It is
(1) precise (able to make very fine distinctions); (2) concise (able to say things briefly); and (3)
powerful (able to express complex thoughts with relative ease). The language of math can be learned
but requires the effort needed to learn any foreign language.

2.1.1. Mathematics vs. English Language

Every language has its vocabulary (the words), and its rules for combining these words into
complete thoughts (the sentences). Mathematics is no exception. As a first step, we will make a very
broad classification between the ‘nouns’ of mathematics (used to name mathematical objects of
interest) and the ‘sentences’ of mathematics (which state complete mathematical thoughts).

English Mathematics
Name given to an NOUN (person, places, thing) EXPRESSION
object of interest Ex: 5, 2+3, ½, X + Y, 2k
Ex: Sorsogon, Algebra, book
A complete SENTENCE SENTENCE
thought Ex: Ex:
The capital of the Philippines is 3+4=7
Manila 3+4=8

With such an understanding, people are more likely avoid common syntax errors—for
example, inappropriately setting things equal to zero, or stringing things together with equal signs, as
if ‘ = ’ means ‘I’m going on to the next step,” and so on.

Here are some examples of English noun, mathematical expression, English sentence and
mathematical sentence.

English Noun Math Expression English Sentence Math Sentence

Legazpi City 2𝑥𝑦 The cat is black. 4+5=9

cat 4 She is beautiful. 4/2 = 2
Jess 3+𝑥 The sky is blue. 2𝑥 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 2𝑥 2 + 2𝑥𝑦
BU (𝑥, 𝑦)
MMW {𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑐}

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 The Language of Mathematics
2.1.2. The Notion of Truth
A mathematical sentence expresses a complete mathematical thought without ambiguity. It is
a correct arrangement of mathematical symbols that states a complete thought. It makes sense to ask
about the truth of a sentence.

Identify which of the following is a math sentence and its truth value.

1. Three is one plus two.

2. Thirty-two multiplied by one is thirty-two.

3. She is beautiful.

4. He walks towards the east.

5. When the window is raised.

6. Rona is smarter than Jaylo.

7. 5 x − 4 = 5x − 25

8. She painted the wall.

9. Xi Jin Ping is the current leader of China.

10. Duterte is an excellent leader.

2.1.3. Conventions in Mathematics Language

Like the English language, mathematics has its conventions in writing mathematical
expressions or objects, allowing us to distinguish one from the other. For instance, we typically use
𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑐 to denote constants and 𝑥, 𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑧 for variables. To denote sets, uppercase letters are used
while lowercase letters are reserved for their elements.

In addition, we use specific symbols for mathematical operations and assigned permanent
variables to most common mathematical objects. For instance,
Symbol Meaning Expression/Sentence
+/− Addition/Subtraction; to add/subtract 10 + 3 = 13 or 10 − 3 = 7
× or or ∙ Multiplication; to multiply 10 × 3 or 10 3 or 10 ∙ 3
÷ or / Division; to divide 10 ÷ 3 or 10/3
Equality; two things are the same or of equal
= 𝑥 = 𝑦 or 10 = 5 + 5
value
∈ Element of; something is a member of 10 ∈ counting numbers ℕ
ℝ Real Numbers; the set real numbers 10 ∈ ℝ
ℤ https://byjus.com/maths/math-symbols/
Integers; the set of all integers −3 ∈ ℤ
Know more: https://byjus.com/maths/math-symbols/
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 The Language of Mathematics
2.1.4. Some Important Kinds of Mathematical Statements
In the previous section, we learned that a mathematical sentence expresses a complete
mathematical thought without ambiguity. Now, a mathematical statement is a declarative
mathematical sentence. It is either true or false but not both.

There are three most important mathematical statements namely, universal statement (US),
conditional statement (CS), and existential statement (ES).

1. Universal Statements - is a statement that says a certain property is true for all elements in a set
• Example: All negative numbers are less than zero.
• Commonly used words: For all , For every, For each
• Symbol: ∀

2. Conditional Statements is a statement that says if one thing is true then some other thing also has
to be true.
• Example: If a number is even, then it is a multiple of 2.
• Commonly used words: If then, if and only if (iff)
• Symbol: →

3. Existential Statement is a statement that says there is at least one thing for which the
property is true.
• Example: There exist a prime number that is even.
• Commonly used words: there exists
• Symbol: ∃

2.1.4.1. Example of Mathematical Statements

Here are some examples of mathematical statements
1) The sum of two even numbers is even. - Universal Statement.
2) The product of any real number is real. - Universal Statement.
3) here exist a sum of two real number that is less than 5. - Existential Statement
4) If 54 is divisible by 9, then 54 is divisible by 3. - Conditional Statement
5) Every decimal number is rational number. - Universal Statement
6) The sum of two odd numbers is an odd number. - Universal Statement
7) If x +7 = 7, then x = 7. - Conditional Statement
8) There exist a number when divided by itself equals 0. - Existential Statement
9) The intersection of odd numbers and natural numbers are odd numbers. - Universal
Statement
10) If two numbers are said to be the factors of a number, then any of the two numbers is a
multiple of that number. - Conditional Statement

Note:
This section requires that you know some numerical and non-numerical properties 6
 The Language of Mathematics
All mathematics, as well as subjects that rely on mathematics, such as computer science and
engineering, make use of the fundamental concepts of sets, sequences, relations, and functions. So,
what is a set? A relation? And a function? A set is a collection of objects, a relation is a set of ordered
pairs, while a function, which is a special kind of relation, assigns each member of a set X exactly one
member of a set Y.

2. 2. The Language of Sets

The use of the word set as a formal mathematical term was introduced in 1879 by Georg
Cantor (1845-1918). For most mathematical purposes, we can think of a set intuitively, as Cantor did,
simple a collection of elements. For instance, if C is the set of countries that are currently in the United
Nations, then the United States is an element of C, and if I is the set of all integers from 1 to 100, then
the number 57 is an element of I.

2.2.1. Set
In some references, a set is defined as a well-defined collection of objects meaning there’s a
clear way of determining whether or not an element belongs to a set. Objects in a set are called
members or elements; they are separated by comma and enclosed in a curly bracket ({ }).
Example:
1. Set of toys
2. Shoe collection
3. Species of fish
4. BU employees
5. Set of natural numbers

2.2.1.1. Ways to Represent a Set

A set may be specified by writing all its elements between braces. For example, 1,2,3 ,
denotes the set contains whose elements are 1, 2, and 3. This method is known as roster or listing
notation. However, when describing a very large set such as integers from 1 to 100, another variation
of this notation is used. Instead of listing the elements one by one, we write 1,2,3, ∙∙∙ , 100 to
represent the set of all integers from 1 to 100. A similar notation is used for infinite set such as the set
of all positive integers, 1,2,3,∙∙∙ . The symbol ∙∙∙ is called an ellipsis and is read “and so forth.”
Another way to specify a set uses what is called the set-builder notation.
Set-Builder Notation
Let S denote a set and let P(x) be a property that element of S may or may not satisfy. We may define
a new set to be the set of all element x in S such that P(x) is true. We denote this set as follows:

𝑥 ∈ 𝑆 𝑃(𝑥)
the set of all such that
Example:
1. x ∈ S x is a positive, even integer
2. x ∈ ℤ x ≠ 0
3. x x is an odd number
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 The Language of Mathematics
2.2.1.2. The Axiom of Extension
A set is determined by its elements and not by any equal, in which the elements might be
listed.
2.2.1.3. Other Notations

If 𝑆 is a set, the notation

𝑥 ∈ 𝑆 means 𝑥 is an element of S.

𝑥 ∉ 𝑆 means 𝑥 is not an element of S.

𝑆 or n(S) = number of unique elements in S, given that it is a finite set.

Note: The elements making up the set are assumed to be distinct, and although for some reason we
may have duplicates in the list, only one occurrence of each element is in the set.

Example: 𝐴 = 1, 2, 3, 4 = 3, 4, 1, 2 = {1, 2, 2, 3, 4}

2.2.2. Empty Set

The set with no elements. Also called null or void and is denoted ∅. Thus ∅ = { }.

Example:

1. Flying cows

2. A = a ∈ ℕ 0 < a < 1

2.2.3. Equal Sets

Two sets X and Y are equal, and we write 𝑋 = 𝑌 if X and Y have the same elements or 𝑌 = 𝑋 if
whenever 𝑥 ∈ 𝑋, then 𝑥 ∈ 𝑌 and whenever 𝑥 ∈ 𝑌, then 𝑥 ∈ 𝑋.

Example:

1. If 𝐴 = 𝑎 𝑎2 + 𝑎 − 6 = 0 , B = {2, −3}, then 𝐴 = 𝐵.

2. If 𝑋 = 𝑥 ∈ ℕ 2 < 𝑥 < 8 , 𝑌 = 𝑦 ∈ ℕ 3 ≤ 𝑦 ≤ 7 then, 𝑋 = 𝑌.

2.2.4. Subset

Suppose that X and Y are sets. If every element of X is an element of Y, we say that X is a
subset of Y and we write X ⊆ Y.

Example:

1. If A = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5}, B = {2, 3}, then B ⊆ A.

2. If X = x ∈ ℕ 2 < x < 8 , Y = {5, 6} then, Y ⊆ X.

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 The Language of Mathematics
Note:
- Any set X is a subset of itself, since any element in X is in X.
- The empty set is a subset of every set.
- If X is a subset of Y and X does not equal Y, we say that X is a proper subset of Y.
- The set of all subsets (proper and not) of a set X, denoted 𝑃 𝑥 , is called the power set of X.

2.2.4.1. Proper Subset

If A = 𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑐 , the member of 𝑃(𝐴) are

∅, 𝑎 , 𝑏 , 𝑐 , 𝑎, 𝑏 , 𝑎, 𝑐 , 𝑏, 𝑐 , {𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑐}

All but {𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑐} are proper subsets of 𝐴.

For this example, 𝐴 = 3 , and 𝑃(𝐴) = 23 = 8

2.2.5. Set Operations

Set operations can be defined as the operations performed on two or more sets to obtain a
single set containing a combination of elements from all the sets being operated upon.

2.2.5.1. Union

Given two sets X and Y, there are various ways to combine X and Y to form a new set. The set
𝑋 ∪ 𝑌 = 𝑥 𝑥 ∈ 𝑋 or 𝑥 ∈ 𝑌

is called union of X and Y. The union consists of all elements belonging to either X or Y (or both).

𝑋 𝑌

𝑋∪𝑌

𝑋∪𝑌
Example:

1. If 𝑋 = {1, 2, 3} and 𝑌 = 1,4, 5 , then, 𝑋 ∪ 𝑌 = 1, 2, 3, 1, 4, 5 = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5}

2. If 𝐴 = {2, 3.5, 𝑓} and B = {0, 1, 1}, then, 𝑋 ∪ 𝑌 = 2, 3.5, 𝑓, 0, 1,1 = {0, 1, 2, 3.5, 𝑓}

3. If 𝐴 = and 𝐵 = ∅ then, 𝐴 ∪ 𝐵 = ∅

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 The Language of Mathematics
2.2.5.2. Intersection
Given two sets X and Y, there are various ways to combine X and Y to form a new set.

The set
𝑋 ∩ 𝑌 = 𝑥 𝑥 ∈ 𝑋 and 𝑥 ∈ 𝑌

is called intersection of X and Y. The intersection consists of all elements belonging to both X or Y. Sets
X and Y are disjoint if 𝑋 ∩ 𝑌 = ∅.
𝑋 𝑌 𝑋 𝑌

Disjoint Sets
Example:

1. If 𝑋 = {1, 3, 5} and 𝑌 = {1, 2, 5, 10}, then, 𝑋 ∩ 𝑌 = {1, 5}.

2. If 𝑋 = {1, 2, 3} and 𝑌 = {3,4, 5}, then, 𝑋 ∩ 𝑌 = {3}.

3. If 𝑋 = {1, 3, 𝑎} and 𝑌 = {2, 5, 𝑏, 𝑒}, then, 𝑋 ∩ 𝑌 = or ∅.

Note: When two sets have no common elements then the intersection is an empty set.

2.2.5.3. Difference
Given two sets X and Y. The set
𝑋 − 𝑌 = 𝑥 𝑥 ∈ 𝑋 and 𝑥 ∉ 𝑌

is called difference (or relative complement). The difference 𝑋 − 𝑌 consists of all elements in X that are
not in Y.
𝑋 𝑌 𝑋 𝑌

𝑋−𝑌 𝑌−𝑋

Example:

Given sets X = {1, 2, 3} and Y = {1,4, 5}, find X – Y and Y – X.

X – Y means elements in X that are not in Y Y – X means elements in Y that is not in X

Thus, X – Y = {2, 3} Thus, Y – X = {4, 5}
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 The Language of Mathematics
Sometimes we are dealing with sets all of which are subsets of a set 𝑈. This set 𝑈 is
called a universal set or a universe. The set 𝑈 must be explicitly given or inferred from the
context. For example, set 𝐴 = 𝑎, 𝑒, 𝑖, 𝑜, 𝑢 ; then its universe is set 𝑈 = 𝐸𝑛𝑔𝑙𝑖𝑠ℎ 𝑎𝑙𝑝ℎ𝑎𝑏𝑒𝑡

2.2.5.4. Complement
Given a universal set 𝑈 and a subset 𝑋 of 𝑈, the set 𝑈 − 𝑋 is called the complement of 𝑋 and is
written 𝑋ത or 𝑋′ or 𝑋 𝑐 .

𝑋 𝑌 𝑋 𝑌

𝑈 𝑈

𝑋ത or complement of X 𝑌ത or complement of Y

Example:

Let 𝐴 = {1, 3, 5}. If U, a universal set, is specified as 𝑈 = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5}, then 𝐴ҧ = 2, 4 .

2.2.5.5. Theorems
Let U be a universal set and let A, B, and C be subsets of U. The following properties hold.

a. Associative laws: 𝐴 ∪ 𝐵 ∪ 𝐶 = 𝐴 ∪ 𝐵 ∪ 𝐶 ; 𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 ∪ 𝐶 = 𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 ∩ 𝐶 ,

b. Commutative laws: 𝐴 ∪ 𝐵 = 𝐵 ∪ 𝐴; 𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 = 𝐵 ∩ 𝐴

c. Distributive laws: 𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 ∩ 𝐶 = 𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 ∪ 𝐴 ∩ 𝐶 ; 𝐴 ∪ 𝐵 ∩ 𝐶 = 𝐴 ∪ 𝐵 ∩ 𝐴 ∪ 𝐵

d. Identity laws: 𝐴 ∪ ∅ = 𝐴; 𝐴 ∩ 𝑈 = 𝐴

e. Complement laws: 𝐴 ∪ 𝐴ҧ = 𝑈; 𝐴 ∩ 𝐴ҧ = ∅

f. Idempotent laws: 𝐴 ∪ 𝐴 = 𝐴; 𝐴 ∩ 𝐴 = 𝐴

g. Bound laws: 𝐴 ∪ 𝑈 = 𝑈; 𝐴 ∩ ∅ = ∅

h. Absorption laws: 𝐴 ∪ 𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 = 𝐴; 𝐴 ∩ 𝐴 ∪ 𝐵 = 𝐴

i. Involution law: 𝐴Ӗ = 𝐴

j. ഥ = 𝑈; 𝑈
0/1 laws: ∅ ഥ=∅

k. De Morgan’s laws for sets: (𝐴 ∪ 𝐵) = 𝐴ҧ ∩ 𝐵;

ത 𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 = 𝐴ҧ ∪ 𝐵ത

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 The Language of Mathematics
2.2.5.6. Cartesian Product
Given sets X and Y, the Cartesian product of A and B, denoted 𝐴 × 𝐵 and read as “A cross B,” is
the set of all ordered pair (a,b), where a is in A and b is in B. Symbolically:
𝐴 × 𝐵 = {(𝑎, 𝑏)ȁ𝑎 ∈ 𝐴 and 𝑏 ∈ 𝐵}
Example 1:
Let X = {𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑐} and Y = {5, 6}. Find X × 𝑌.

Solution:
Simply get all the possible ordered pair combinations of the elements of X and Y and write
them as a set. That is,
𝑋 × 𝑌 = { 𝑎, 5 , 𝑎, 6 , 𝑏, 5 , 𝑏, 6 , 𝑐, 5 , 𝑐, 6 }
In this set relation, a new set whose elements are ordered pairs is produced by crossing the
elements of two sets such that the first elements of the ordered pairs (x) come from the first set while
the second elements (y) come from the second set.

Note:
An ordered pair of elements, written (𝑥, 𝑦), is considered distinct from the ordered pair
(𝑦, 𝑥), unless of course, 𝑥 = 𝑦. To put it another way, (𝑎, 𝑏) = (𝑐, 𝑑) if and only if 𝑎 = 𝑐 and 𝑏 = 𝑑.
If 𝑋 and 𝑌 are sets, we let 𝑋 × 𝑌 demote the set of all ordered pairs (𝑥, 𝑦), where 𝑥 ∈ 𝑋 and
y ∈ 𝑌 . We call 𝑋 × 𝑌 the Cartesian product of X and Y.

Example 2:

If 𝑋 = {1, 2, 3} and 𝑌 = 𝑎, 𝑏 , then

𝑋×𝑌 = 1, 𝑎 , 1, 𝑏 , 2, 𝑎 , 2, 𝑏 , 3, 𝑎 , 3, 𝑏
𝑌×𝑋 = 𝑎, 1 , 𝑎, 2 , 𝑎, 3 , 𝑏, 1 , 𝑏, 2 , 𝑏, 3
𝑋×𝑋 = 1,1 , 1,2 , 1,3 , 2,1 , 2,2 , 2,3), (3,1 , 3,2 , (3,3)
𝑌×𝑌 = 𝑎, 𝑎 , 𝑎, 𝑏 , 𝑏, 𝑎 , 𝑏, 𝑏

In general, 𝑋 × 𝑌 ≠ 𝑌 × 𝑋. Notice that 𝑋 × 𝑌 = 𝑋 ∙ 𝑌

Example 3:
A restaurant serves four appetizers r = ribs, n = nachos, s = shrimp, f = fried cheese and three
main courses c = chicken, b = beef, p = pork. If we let 𝐴 = {𝑟, 𝑛, 𝑠, 𝑓} and 𝑀 = {𝑐, 𝑏, 𝑡}, the Cartesian
product 𝐴 × 𝑀 lists the 12 possible dinners consisting one appetizer and one main course.

Try this:

Given: 𝐴 = {0, 1} and 𝐵 = {2, 3, 4}. Find 𝐴 × 𝐵 and 𝐵 × 𝐵

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 The Language of Mathematics
Relationships exist in various forms in the world around us. For example, two individuals
may share a biological relationship, such as a mother and child. Groups of people may be connected
through their affiliation with an organization. Other types of relationships include teacher-student
interactions or the bond between a husband and wife. Essentially, any form of association between
entities describes a relationship.
In mathematics, objects can also be related in numerous ways. As discussed previously, two
sets may be related if one is a subset of the other or even if one is not. In this section, we will explore
the concept of relations in mathematics and extend our discussion to include functions, which are a
special type of relation.

2. 3. The Language of Relations and Functions

2.3.1. Relation
Let 𝐴 and 𝐵 be sets. A relation 𝑅 from 𝐴 to 𝐵 is a subset of 𝐴 × 𝐵. Given an ordered pair (x, y)
in 𝐴 × 𝐵, 𝑥 is related to 𝑦 by 𝑅, written 𝑥 𝑅 𝑦, iff, (𝑥, 𝑦) is in 𝑅. The set 𝐴 is called the domain of 𝑅 and
the set 𝐵 is called its co-domain.

Example:
Let 𝐴 = {1, 2, 3} and 𝐵 = {2, 3, 4} and let us also say that an element 𝑥 in 𝐴 is related to an
element of 𝑦 in 𝐵, iff, 𝑥 < 𝑦.
𝐴 × 𝐵 = { 1,2 , 1,3 , 1,4 , 2,2 , 2,3 , 2,4 , 3,2 , 3,3 , 3,4 }
We found that,
1. 1𝑅2 since 1 < 2
2. 2𝑅3 since 2 < 3
3. 3𝑅4 since 3 < 4
Observe that not all the elements are related by 𝑥 < 𝑦
For example, we say that,
4. 3𝑅2 since 3 ≮ 2, or
5. 3𝑅3 since 3 ≮ 3

2.3.1.1. Relation as a subset

Let 𝐴 = {1, 2} and 𝐵 = {1, 3, 5} and define a relation 𝑅 from 𝐴 to 𝐵 as follows; Given
any (𝑥, 𝑦) ∈ 𝐴 × 𝐵,

𝑥−𝑦
𝑥, 𝑦 ∈ 𝑅; ∈𝑍
2

First, 𝐴×𝐵 = 1,1 , 1,3 , 1,5 , 2,1 , 2,3 , 2,5

Then, check the relation. Upon inspection, we found that
𝑅 = 1,1 , 1,3 , (1,5)
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 The Language of Mathematics
2.3.1.2. Notations
The notation for a relation R may be written symbolically as follows:
𝑥 𝑅 𝑦 means that 𝑥, 𝑦 ∈ 𝑅 −means that x is not related to y by R:
𝑥 𝑅 𝑦 means that 𝑥, 𝑦 ∉ 𝑅 − means that x is not related to y by R.

Example:

Let 𝐴 = {4, 5, 6} and 𝐵 = {1, 2, 3} and define a relation 𝑅 from 𝐴 to 𝐵 as follows:

1
Given any 𝑥, 𝑦 ∈ 𝑅 if and only if for all x in A, 2 𝑥 = 𝑦

Solution:

Step 1: Determine 𝐴 × 𝐵.
𝑨 × 𝑩 = { 4,1 , 4,2 , 4,3 , 5,1 , 5,2 , 5,3 , 6,1 , 6,2 , 6,3 }

Step 2: Map X to Y such that half of x is y.

A B
4 1
5 2
6 3

Step 3: Write the elements of the relation.

𝑅 = { 4,2 , 6,3 }

2.3.1.3. Arrow Diagram

Suppose 𝑅 is a relation from a set 𝐴 to a set 𝐵. The arrow diagram for 𝑅 is obtained as
follows:
1. Represent the elements of 𝐴 as points in one region and the elements of 𝐵 as points in another
region.
2. For each 𝑥 in 𝐴 and 𝑦 in 𝐵, draw an arrow from 𝑥 to 𝑦 if, and only if, 𝑥 is related to 𝑦 by 𝑅.
Symbolically,
Draw an arrow from 𝑥 to 𝑦
iff, 𝑥 𝑅 𝑦
iff, (𝑥, 𝑦) ∈ 𝑅

Example:
Let 𝐴 = {1,3,5} and 𝐵 = {2,3,4} defined by relation 𝑆 and 𝑇 from 𝐴 to 𝐵 as follows. For all
𝑥, 𝑦 ∈ 𝐴 × 𝐵;
𝑥, 𝑦 ∈ 𝑆; 𝑥 < 𝑦
𝑇 = 3,2 , 3,4
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Solution:

S
T

1 2 1 2

3 3 3 3

5 4 5 4

2.3.2. Functions
A function 𝑓 from a set A to a set B is a relation with domain A and co-domain B that satisfies
the following four properties:
1. Every element of A is the first elements of an ordered pair of 𝑓
2. No two distinct ordered pairs in 𝑓 have the same first element (𝑥). In other words, every 𝑥-value
maps to only one 𝑦-value.
3. Two or more elements in X may be matched with the same element in Y.
If 𝐴 and 𝐵 are sets and 𝐹 is a function from 𝐴 to 𝐵, then given any element 𝑥 in 𝐴, the unique
element in 𝐵 that is related to 𝑥 by 𝐹 is denoted 𝐹(𝑥), which is read “𝐹 𝑜𝑓 𝑥. ”

Notation:

A function 𝑓: 𝑋 → 𝑌 between sets 𝑋 and 𝑌, assigns to each 𝑥 ∈ 𝑋 a unique element of 𝑓(𝑥) ∈

𝑌. Functions are also called maps, mappings, or transformations. We write 𝑓: 𝑥 → 𝑦 to indicate that 𝑓
is the function that maps 𝑥 to 𝑓(𝑥).

Example:

The square function 𝑓: ℕ → ℕ is defined by

𝑓 𝑛 = 𝑛2 or 𝑓: 𝑛 → 𝑛2

One useful way to think of a function is as a machine. Suppose 𝑓 is a function from 𝑋 to 𝑌 and
an input 𝑥 of 𝑋 is given. Imagine f to be a machine that processes 𝑥 in a certain way to produce the
output 𝑓(𝑥).

Function
Input (x) Output (f x )
Machine

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 The Language of Mathematics
2.3.2.1. Squaring Function
The squaring function 𝑓 from ℝ to ℝ by the formula 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 2 for all real numbers 𝑥. This
means that no matter what real number input is substituted for 𝑥, the output of 𝑓 will be the square of
that number. So if you put 5 in this machine, you’ll get 25. Or if you put 10, you’ll get 100. Can be also
written as, 𝑓: 𝑥 → 𝑥 2 .

Squaring
𝑥 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥2
Machine

2.3.2.2. Successor Function

The successor function 𝑔 from 𝐙 to 𝐙 is defined by the formula g 𝑛 = 𝑛 + 1. This means
that no matter what integer is substituted for 𝑛, the output of 𝑔 will be that number plus 1. So if you
put 5 in this machine, you get 6 in return. Or if you put 7.5, you get 8.5. This can also be written as,
𝑔: 𝑛 → 𝑛 + 1.

Successor
𝑥 𝑔 𝑛 =𝑛+1
Machine

2.3.2.3. Constant Function

The constant function ℎ from 𝐐 to 𝐙 is defined by the formula ℎ 𝑟 = 2 for all rational
numbers 𝑟. This functions sends every rational number 𝑟 to 2. In other words, no matter what input,
the output is always 2.. So, even if you put 1 in this machine, you’ll get 2. Or if you put 100, you’ll still
get 2. This can also be written as ℎ: 𝑟 → 2

Constant
𝑥 ℎ 𝑟 =2
Machine

2.3.3. Ways to describe a function

1. Equation
2. Table of Values
3. Set of Ordered Pairs
4. Mapping Diagram
5. Graph
6. Rule of Correspondence

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A function is an entity in its own right. It can be thought of as a certain relationship between
sets or as an input/output machince that operates according to a certain rule. This is the reason why a
funtion is generally denoted by a single symbol or string of symbols, such as, F, G, of log, or sin.

A relation is a subset of a Cartesian product and a function is a special kind of relation.

Specifically, if f and g are functions from a set A to a set B, then

𝑓 = 𝑥, 𝑦 ∈ 𝐴 × 𝐵: 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥)} and

g = 𝑥, 𝑦 ∈ 𝐴 × 𝐵: 𝑦 = 𝑔(𝑥)}

It follows that

𝑓 = 𝑔, iff, 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑔(𝑥) for all 𝑥 in 𝐴.

2. 4. Key takeaways

✓ Mathematics like any other language has its own vocabulary and rules.

✓ Mathematics language is precise, concise, and powerful.

✓ A mathematical sentence expresses a complete mathematical thought without ambiguity. It is a

correct arrangement of mathematical symbols that states a complete thought and is either true or
false.

✓ As a language, mathematics has its own conventions.

✓ A set is a well-defined collection of object. It can be described using roster or set-builder notation.

✓ A set is completely determined by what its elements are-not the order in which they might be listed
or the fact that some elements might be listed more than once.

✓ Subset is basic relation between sets. When a set is a subset of another set, it means that such set is
contained by that other set.

✓ An empty set is a set with no element. It is a subset of all sets.

✓ Sets can be combined using one operation or a combination of different operations to form new
sets.

✓ Relation is any form of association between two sets. It is a subset of cartesian product.

✓ Function is a special kind of relation which assigns every x in X to a unique y in Y.

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2. 5. Assessment (Non-graded)

Test yourself. Read each item carefully. Provide what is being asked in each item.

1. Say A is a set of sports, provide 3 different subsets you can think of from this set with at least 2
elements.
a. ______________________________________________
b. ______________________________________________
c. ______________________________________________
2. Given the set of natural numbers ℕ = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, … , list down three possible proper subsets?
a. ______________________________________________
b. ______________________________________________
c. ______________________________________________
3. Let 𝑅 = {𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑐} 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑆 = {1, 2, 3}, how many elements are there in 𝑅 × 𝑆? What are those
elements?
a. ______________________________________________
b. ______________________________________________
4. Let 𝐷 = {1,4} and E = {1, 3, 5} and define relations U, V and W as follows: For all 𝑥, 𝑦 ∈ 𝐷 × 𝐸,
- 𝑥, 𝑦 ∈ 𝑈; 𝑦 − 𝑥 > 1
- 𝑥, 𝑦 ∈ 𝑉; 𝑥 + 1 = 𝑦
- 𝑊 = { 1, 3 , 4, 5 }
a. Draw arrow diagrams for U, V, and W.
b. Indicate whether any of the relations U, V and W are functions.
5. Write two function formulas.

a. ______________________________________________
b. ______________________________________________

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2.6. Assessment (Answer Key)

1. Answer may vary. Here are some examples:

basketball, volleybal , badminton, volleybal , basketball, badminton ,

basketball, volleyball, swimming ,
basketball, badminton, swimming , badminton, volleyball, swimming ,
basketball, badminton, swimming , basketball, badminton, swimming, tennis ,
basketball, badminton, volleyball, tennis , etc.

2. (Possible answers)

1 , 2 , 3 , ….

1, 2 , 1, 3 , 1, 4 , … , 2, 1 , 2, 2 , 2, 3 , …

1, 2, 3 , 1, 2, 4 , 1, 2, 5 , 1, 2, 6 , …

1, 2, 3, 4 , 1, 2, 3, 5 , 1, 2, 3, 6 , … and so on.

3. 𝑅 = {𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑐} 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑆 = {1, 2, 3}

a) R × S = 3 × 3 = 9 elements

b) R × S = a, 1 , a, 2 , a, 3 , b, 1 , b, 2 , b, 3 , c, 1 , c, 2 , (c, 3)

4. Let D = {1,4} and E = {1, 3, 5}

U V W
D E D E D E

1 1 1
1 1 1
3 3 3
4 4 4
5 5 5

Not a function Not a function Function

5. Answers may vary. Here are some examples:

p x = 2𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 1; g 𝑥 = 5; ℎ 𝑟 = 3𝑟 − 5; 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 2

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2. 7. Do it Yourself!

Test yourself. Read each item carefully. Choose the letter of your best answer.

1. Given sets 𝐴 = 𝑥 ∈ ℤ 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 2 − 1 and 𝐵 = 𝑥 ∈ ℤ 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 − 1 , find 𝐴 × 𝐵.

a. A×B= 1,1 , 1, −1 c. A × B = 1,1
b. A×B= −1,1 , 1, −1 d. A × B = 1, −1
2. Which of the following is an empty set?
a. S = x x is a factor of 50 c. S = y y is an even number divisible by 2
b. S= z∈ℤ1≤z<3 d. S = z ∈ ℝ x 2 + 4 = 0
3. How many elements are in the set {1, {1}, {1, {1}}}?
a. 4 c. 3
b. 2 d. 1
4. Which of the following sets are equal?

A = {a, b, c, d} B = {d, e, a, c} C = {d, b, a, c} D = {a, a, d, e, c, e}

a. A & B b. A & C c. C & D d. B & C

5. Given 𝐴 = {0, 1, 2 , 3, 4, 5 }, determine which of the following is true?

a. 1⊆A b. 0 ∈ 𝐴 c. ∅ ∈ 𝐴 d. {1, 2} ⊆ A
6. Use roster method to describe the set S that contains all factors of 10.
a. S = x x is a factor of 10 c. S = {1, 2, 5, 10}
b. S = (x, y) xy = 10 d. S = {2, 5}

7. Which of the following is a true mathematical sentence?

a. Some real numbers are complex numbers.
b. If even numbers are multiples of four, then it is divisible by two.
c. Every positive integer has an additive inverse.
d. There exists a number whose factor is only itself

8. Given sets 𝐴 = 2, 4, 6 and 𝐵 = 1, 3, 5, 7 , and define relations R and S from A to B as follows:

−𝐹𝑜𝑟 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑥, 𝑦 ∈ 𝐴 × 𝐵, (𝑥, 𝑦) ∈ 𝑅 iff 𝑥 ≥ 𝑦; − 𝐹𝑜𝑟 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑥, 𝑦 ∈ 𝐴 × 𝐵, (𝑥, 𝑦) ∈ 𝑆 iff 𝑥 + 1 = 𝑦

• Write R and S as set of ordered pairs.

• Draw an arrow diagram of R and S
• Indicate whether any of the relations R and S are functions
• Write the domain and co-domain of R and S as sets.

9-10. Verify that the identities are true for these sets. Let 𝑈 = 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10 , 𝐴 = 1,2,3,4,5 , 𝐵 = 4,5,6,7

and 𝐶 = {5,6,7,8,9,10}.

a. 𝐴∪ 𝐵∪𝐶 = 𝐴∪𝐵 ∪𝐶 b. 𝐴 ∩ 𝐵 ∩ 𝐶 = (𝐴 ∩ 𝐵) ∩ 𝐶 c. (𝐴 ∪ 𝐵) = 𝐴ҧ ∩ 𝐵ത
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2.8. References

BOOKS

Aufmann, R., et. al. 2018 & 2013. Mathematical Excursions. 14th Edition. Cengage Learning Asia
Pte Ltd. Philippines.

Epp, S. 2011. Discrete Mathematics: An Introduction to Mathematical Reasoning. Cengage

Learning.

Johnsonbaugh, R. Discrete Mathematics. 3rd Edition.

ONLINE SITES

https://onemathematicalcat.org/pdf_files/LANG1.pdf

https://byjus.com/maths/math-symbols/

Disclaimer: This material is a compilation of content gathered from various sources. I do not claim ownership
of any ideas, concepts, or information presented herein. All credit and rights belong to the original authors
and sources, which are acknowledged wherever possible. This compilation is intended solely for educational
purposes and to aid in the dissemination of knowledge.

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