Finding Least Value m with Property P in Discrete Math

In summary, the problem asks to determine the minimum value of m such that any family of subsets with more than m elements will have the property P, where P is defined as having at least two subsets A and B, where A is a proper subset of B and the difference between the cardinalities of B and A is 1. The answer is $2^{n-1}$, and to prove this, it is necessary to show that a collection of subsets with $2^{n-1}$ elements does not satisfy P, and that any collection with more than $2^{n-1}$ elements does satisfy P. This can be shown by representing the subsets as binary numbers and using the concept of a Gray code.
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Consider a set X with |X|=n≥1 elements. A family F of distinct subsets of X is sad to have property P if there exist A and B in F, such that A is a proper subset of B and |B\A|=1. Determine the least value m, so that any F with |F|>m has property P.
This is a problem asked by our Discrete mathematics teacher,but i have no idea where to start from.. If anybody could help me?
 
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There have been no replies, but the question is solved?

Anyway, the answer is $2^{n-1}$. Here are substantial hints to prove this:

1. There is a collection $\mathcal{F}$ of subsets with |$\mathcal{F}|=2^{n-1}$ that does not satisfy P. One way to prove this is by induction on n.

2. If $\mathcal{F}>2^{n-1}$, $\mathcal{F}$ satisfies P. Think of the subsets as being represented by the binary numbers (bit strings of length n). In a subset of a Gray code with more than $2^{n-1}$ elements, show that the subset contains 2 consecutive elements.
 

Related to Finding Least Value m with Property P in Discrete Math

1. What is the definition of least value m with property P in discrete math?

The least value m with property P in discrete math refers to the smallest possible value of the variable m that satisfies a given property P in a discrete mathematical problem. This is often used in optimization problems where the goal is to find the minimum value of a certain quantity.

2. How do you determine the least value m with property P in discrete math?

The process of finding the least value m with property P in discrete math varies depending on the specific problem and property. In general, it involves setting up equations or inequalities, applying mathematical techniques such as differentiation or substitution, and solving for the minimum value of m that satisfies the property.

3. What are some common properties in discrete math where finding the least value m is important?

Some common properties in discrete math where finding the least value m is important include minimizing cost or maximizing profit in optimization problems, minimizing the number of steps in an algorithm, and minimizing the number of resources needed in a task.

4. Can the least value m with property P be unique?

In some cases, the least value m with property P may be unique, meaning there is only one value of m that satisfies the given property. However, in other cases, there may be multiple values of m that satisfy the property, in which case the least value would be the smallest among these values.

5. How is finding the least value m with property P in discrete math useful in real-world applications?

Finding the least value m with property P in discrete math is useful in many real-world applications, particularly in optimization and decision-making problems. It allows us to find the most efficient or cost-effective solutions to problems, making it a valuable tool in fields such as finance, engineering, and computer science.

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