Prove that the function f : N N, defined by f(x) = x2 + x + 1 is one – one but not onto.

TIP: One – One Function: – A function is said to be a one – one functions or an injection if different elements of A have different images in B.


So, is One – One function


a≠b


f(a)≠f(b) for all


f(a) = f(b)


a = b for all


Onto Function: – A function is said to be a onto function or surjection if every element of A i.e, if f(A) = B or range of f is the co – domain of f.


So, is Surjection iff for each , there exists such that f(a) = b


Now, given by f(x) = x2 + x + 1


Check for Injectivity:


Let x,y be elements belongs to N i.e such that


So, from definition


f(x) = f(y)


x2 + x + 1 = y2 + y + 1


x2 – y2 + x – y = 0


( x – y )( x + y + 1) = 0


As therefore x + y + 1>0


x – y = 0


x = y


Hence f is One – One function


Check for Surjectivity:


y be element belongs to N i.e be arbitrary


Since for y > 1, we do not have any pre image in domain N.


Hence, f is not Onto function.


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