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Does a relation between two sets have to contain every possible ordered pair from their Cartesian product?

No, a relation does not have to contain every possible ordered pair. By definition, a relation is a subset of the Cartesian product A×BA \times B, meaning it can include only some of the ordered pairs. Including all possible pairings is a special case described as a trivial relationship.

Conditions

  • A and B are sets.
  • R is a relation between A and B.

Reasoning, step by step

  1. Recall the definition of a relation as a subset of A×BA \times B.
  2. Understand that a subset can be smaller than the full set.
  3. Recognize that a relation typically selects only specific ordered pairs that satisfy a given condition.
  4. Note that the full Cartesian product A×BA \times B is a valid but trivial relation.

Example

The video uses a humans-and-pets example where only some human-pet pairings are included in the ownership relation. The lecturer explicitly states that a relation is not all possible pairings, though all possible pairings could be a trivial relationship.

Common misconceptions

  • Confusing a relation with the entire Cartesian product.
  • Assuming that if a relation exists, it must apply to all pairs of objects from the two sets.

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Answers are generated from source material and independently checked. Consult the original video or creator if something is unclear.