Equivalence (same cardinality) vs. equality — pick the non-equivalent pair: Which pair of sets is not equivalent (i.e., does not have the same number of elements)?

Aptitude Sets and Functions Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
  • A
    A = {2, 4, 6, 8}, B = {u, v, w, x}
  • B
    A = {a, b, c}, B = {α, β, γ, δ, ν}
  • C
    A = {}, B = ϕ
  • D
    A = {x: x = 2n, n ∈ N}, B = {x: x = 2n + 1, n ∈ N}.
  • E
    None of these

Answer

Correct Answer: A = {a, b, c}, B = {α, β, γ, δ, ν}

Explanation

Introduction / Context:Equivalent sets have the same cardinality (finite or infinite), regardless of the actual elements. We compare counts, not membership equality.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Option (a): sizes 4 and 4
  • Option (b): sizes 3 and 5
  • Option (c): both empty → size 0 each
  • Option (d): both countably infinite

Concept / Approach:Check cardinalities directly; infinite even integers and infinite odd integers are in bijection, hence equivalent.

Step-by-Step Solution:(a) Equivalent(b) Not equivalent (3 ≠ 5)(c) Equivalent(d) Equivalent (map n → n gives a bijection between even and odd forms)

Verification / Alternative check:Construct a bijection for (d): 2n ↔ 2n + 1 is one-to-one and onto.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:They have matching sizes or bijections; only (b) mismatches sizes.

Common Pitfalls:Confusing “equivalent” with “equal”; they are different notions.

Final Answer:A = {a, b, c}, B = {α, β, γ, δ, ν}

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