Current topic: bijections
A function $f: X \to Y$ is called bijective if it is both:
- Injective (one-to-one): $f(a) = f(b) \implies a = b$
- Surjective (onto): $\forall y \in Y, \exists x \in X$ such that $f(x) = y$
$$|X| = |Y| \iff \text{exists a bijection between finite sets}$$
⟹ Exercise: Prove that the composition of two bijections is a bijection.
Hint: Show injectivity and surjectivity separately. Let $f: A \to B$ and $g: B \to C$ be bijections. Consider $g \circ f: A \to C$.
Next up: combinatorics — counting principles, permutations, and combinations.