TeXipedia

oslash

Represents the empty set symbol with a forward slash through it, commonly used in set theory and mathematical notation.

Overview

Essential in mathematical writing where null or empty sets need to be clearly distinguished, particularly in formal set theory, logic, and abstract algebra.

  • Frequently appears in proofs and theorems involving set operations
  • Used in computer science when discussing algorithms and data structures
  • Common in academic papers and textbooks where precise mathematical notation is required
  • Serves as a more formal alternative to the simple empty set notation

Examples

Expressing the empty set in set theory notation

AB=A \oslash B = \emptyset
A \oslash B = \emptyset

Indicating a null or undefined mathematical operation

f(x)g(x)=undefinedf(x) \oslash g(x) = \text{undefined}
f(x) \oslash g(x) = \text{undefined}

Showing incompatibility between mathematical objects

RC=\mathbb{R} \oslash \mathbb{C} = \emptyset
\mathbb{R} \oslash \mathbb{C} = \emptyset