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In the formula B(F(A),B)≅A(A,G(B))\mathcal{B}(F(A),B) \cong \mathcal{A}(A,G(B)), what kind of isomorphism is meant?

The symbol ≅\cong denotes an isomorphism in the category of sets, which means it is simply a bijection between the two hom-sets. Because hom-sets are sets, their isomorphisms are bijective functions.

Conditions

  • The compared objects are hom-sets
  • The ambient category for the isomorphism is the category of sets

Reasoning, step by step

  1. Identify that B(F(A),B)\mathcal{B}(F(A),B) and A(A,G(B))\mathcal{A}(A,G(B)) are hom-sets.
  2. Recognize that hom-sets live in the category of sets.
  3. Conclude that an isomorphism in the category of sets is a bijection.

Example

The lecturer explains, “Well, these are hom sets. They live in the category of sets. What is an isomorphism in this category? It’s just a bijection.”

Common misconceptions

  • Overinterpreting the symbol ≅\cong as referring to some exotic categorical isomorphism.
  • Assuming the isomorphism must preserve additional algebraic structure beyond set bijection.

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