The number of counterexamples Mariel found might seem excessive for proving a conditional statement false.
How to explain
Typically, a single counterexample suffices to invalidate a conditional statement. However, presenting multiple counterexamples can strengthen the argument's credibility by demonstrating consistency in refuting the statement across various scenarios.
Though 12 counterexamples might exceed the minimum requirement, they potentially reinforce the statement's falsehood comprehensively, highlighting its invalidity in diverse conditions and solidifying the conclusion that the conditional statement does not hold universally.
This surplus of counterexamples bolsters the assertion's robustness against potential challenges or exceptions, providing a more convincing disproof of the conditional statement.
The Complete Question
Mariel discovered 12 counterexamples to disprove a conditional statement. Did she require this extensive number of counterexamples? Explain the necessity or reasoning behind having such a quantity.