Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: (A × B) ∩ (A × C)
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Cartesian product respects intersections: A × (B ∩ C) = (A × B) ∩ (A × C). We confirm this using elementwise reasoning.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Any pair (x, y) is in A × (B ∩ C) iff x ∈ A and y ∈ B and y ∈ C. This is exactly the definition of being simultaneously in A × B and A × C.
Step-by-Step Solution:
A × (B ∩ C) = {(a,b),(a,c),(d,b),(d,c)}(A × B) ∩ (A × C) = same four pairs
Verification / Alternative check:
Subset checks both ways show equality straightforwardly.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Union would include pairs with y in B or C (too many); ϕ is false; “None” contradicts the law above.
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing distribution over union versus intersection; note that A × (B ∪ C) = (A × B) ∪ (A × C) (different identity).
Final Answer:
(A × B) ∩ (A × C)
Discussion & Comments