Can You Tackle the Subset Chain Challenge in Math?

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  • Thread starter Euge
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In summary, the POTW (Problem of the Week) is a weekly challenge or puzzle that is open to anyone who is interested in participating. To join, individuals must read the challenge and submit their solutions by the designated deadline through a designated website, email, or other specified means. Participating in the POTW can improve problem-solving skills, critical thinking abilities, and creativity, and also provides a fun and engaging activity with the potential to win prizes. The challenges are created by a team of experts in their respective fields and are designed to be thought-provoking and accessible to all participants.
  • #1
Euge
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MHB
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Let $X$ be a nonempty set of $n$ elements. Suppose $\emptyset \neq S_0 \subset S_1 \subset S_2\subset \cdots$ be a chain of subsets of $X$. Prove that to every positive integer $k \ge 2\log n$, there corresponds an index $j\in \{1,\ldots, k\}$ such that $$\operatorname{card}(S_j - S_{j-1}) \le \frac{2\operatorname{card}(S_{j-1})}{k}\log n$$

[Note: The logarithm here is the natural logarithm.]
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Remember to read the https://mathhelpboards.com/showthread.php?772-Problem-of-the-Week-%28POTW%29-Procedure-and-Guidelines to find out how to https://mathhelpboards.com/forms.php?do=form&fid=2!
 
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  • #2
No one answered this week's problem. You can read my solution below.

If the result does not hold, then there exists an integer $k \ge 2\log n$ such that for all indices $j \in \{1,\ldots, k\}$, $$\operatorname{card}(S_j - S_{j-1}) > \frac{2\operatorname{card}(S_{j-1}}{k}\log n$$ Since $\operatorname{card}(S_j - S_{j-1}) = \operatorname{card}(S_j) - \operatorname{card}(S_{j-1})$, equivalently $$\operatorname{card}(S_j) > \left(1 + \frac{2}{k}\log n\right)\operatorname{card}(S_{j-1})$$ By the inequality $1 + 2x \ge e^x$ for all $x\in [0,1]$, it follows that for every $j$, $\operatorname{card}(S_j) > n^{1/k} \operatorname{card}(S_{j-1})$. Inductively, $\operatorname{card}(S_j) > n^{j/k}\operatorname{card}(S_0) \ge n^{j/k}$ for all $j$. In particular $\operatorname{card}(S_k) > n$, a contradiction.
 

Related to Can You Tackle the Subset Chain Challenge in Math?

1. What is the POTW for April 22, 2020?

The POTW, or Problem of the Week, for April 22, 2020 is a question or puzzle that challenges individuals to use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to find a solution.

2. How often is the POTW updated?

The POTW is updated weekly, typically on a specific day of the week, such as every Monday or every Wednesday. This allows for consistency and gives participants a set timeframe to work on the problem.

3. Who can participate in the POTW?

The POTW is open to anyone who is interested in solving challenging problems and puzzles. It is a fun and educational activity for people of all ages and backgrounds.

4. Are there any prizes for solving the POTW?

While there may not be physical prizes for solving the POTW, the satisfaction of solving a difficult problem and the opportunity to improve one's problem-solving skills can be considered valuable rewards.

5. Where can I find the answer to the POTW?

The answer to the POTW is typically posted on the same platform where the problem was originally shared, such as a website or social media page. Some platforms may also provide explanations or alternate solutions to the problem.

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