Does there exist a function such that if and are distinct rational numbers satisfying or , then ? Justify your answer.
[i]
Does there exist a function such that if and are distinct rational numbers satisfying or , then ? Justify your answer.
[i]
We are given the problem of determining whether there exists a function such that for any two distinct rational numbers and , if they satisfy or , then .
To solve this problem, we can explore the definitions and properties of the conditions given:
1. Condition 1: .
This implies . The function should satisfy . Hence, if , then and vice versa.
2. Condition 2: .
For , we have . Therefore, . If , then and vice versa.
For , we have . Thus, . If , then and vice versa.
We need to construct such a function . We will proceed with a specific construction to show such a function exists.
### Function Construction
Define as follows:
- if is a positive rational number that can be expressed in the form where and are positive integers, and .
- if is a positive rational number that can be expressed in the form where and are positive integers, and .
- For negative rational numbers, define .
- Define .
- Define .
### Verification
Let's verify that this function satisfies the conditions.
1. **For :**
If , then . Whether or has or , the definition ensures that .
2. **For :**
Here, . Clearly by definition .
3. **For :**
Consider . Again, whether or , we find due to the definition.
With this construction, we conclude that such a function does indeed exist that satisfies the conditions for the given problem. Therefore, the answer is: