# Math Help - Basic Set theory...

1. ## Basic Set theory...

What is the difference between

$\subset$ and $\subseteq$

Thank you very much

2. A,B sets
A $\subset$ B ---> this means that all elements from set A are also elements of set B where B is bigger set ( it has more elements (important) )
A $\subseteq$ B ---> this means that all elements from set A are also elements of set B where A can be equal to B

example: A = { 1, 2, 3 }

B = { 1, 2, 3 }

then this is true: A $\subseteq$ B , but this isnt A $\subset$ B

but if B is = { 1, 2, 3, 4 }

A $\subseteq$ B is true and this is also true A $\subset$ B

There is no precise difference; it generally depends upon the author and the textbook.
In general, $\subset$ stands for a proper subset and in that case this symbol $\varsubsetneq$ is also used.
That is, it is a subset but not the entire superset.

For example, all of the following are correct usage:
$\left\{ {1,2,3} \right\} \subset \left\{ {1,2,3,4,5} \right\},\;\left\{ {1,2,3} \right\} \varsubsetneq \left\{ {1,2,3,4,5} \right\}\left\{ {1,2,3} \right\} \subseteq \left\{ {1,2,3,4,5} \right\}$

To be clear as to a set being a proper subset it is best to use this $A \varsubsetneq B$.
That makes it clear that $A$ is not $B$.

4. Thanks very much :]

I'll thank you both

:]