Definition
A given binary relation ~ on a set A is said to be an equivalence relation if and only if it is reflexive, symmetric and transitive. Equivalently, for all a, b and c in A:
- a ~ a. (Reflexivity)
- if a ~ b then b ~ a. (Symmetry)
- if a ~ b and b ~ c then a ~ c. (Transitivity)
A together with the relation ~ is called a setoid. The equivalence class of a under ~, denoted, is defined as .
Read more about this topic: Equivalence Relation
Famous quotes containing the word definition:
“Perhaps the best definition of progress would be the continuing efforts of men and women to narrow the gap between the convenience of the powers that be and the unwritten charter.”
—Nadine Gordimer (b. 1923)
“... we all know the wags definition of a philanthropist: a man whose charity increases directly as the square of the distance.”
—George Eliot [Mary Ann (or Marian)
“No man, not even a doctor, ever gives any other definition of what a nurse should be than thisdevoted and obedient. This definition would do just as well for a porter. It might even do for a horse. It would not do for a policeman.”
—Florence Nightingale (18201910)