A relation R is defined on the set of integers as x R y iff (x + y) is even.…

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A relation R is defined on the set of integers as x R y iff (x + y) is even. Which of the following statements is true?

  1. A.

    R is not an equivalence relation

  2. B.

    R is an equivalence relation having 1 equivalence class

  3. C.

    R is an equivalence relation having 2 equivalence classes

  4. D.

    R is an equivalence relation having 3 equivalence classes

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Correct answer: C

Given relation:

xRy  ⟺  (x+y) is even

Two integers have an even sum when both are:

  • even, or

  • odd

Thus, integers are divided into two groups:

  1. Even integers

  2. Odd integers

Checking properties:

  • Reflexive:

x+x=2x

is always even.

  • Symmetric:
    If x+y is even, then y+x is also even.

  • Transitive:
    If x+y and y+z are even, then x and z have same parity, so x+z is even.

Hence, RRR is an equivalence relation.

Equivalence classes:

  • Set of all even integers

  • Set of all odd integers

Therefore, there are 2 equivalence classes.

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