Lemma 68.16.4. In Situation 68.16.1. Let $Z_0, Z_1 \subset |X|$ be disjoint closed subsets. Then there exists an $a \in A$ such that $Z_0 \subset V(a)$ and $Z_1 \subset V(a - 1)$.

Proof. We may and do endow $Z_0$, $Z_1$ with the reduced induced subspace structure (Properties of Spaces, Definition 65.12.5) and we denote $i_0 : Z_0 \to X$ and $i_1 : Z_1 \to X$ the corresponding closed immersions. Since $Z_0 \cap Z_1 = \emptyset$ we see that the canonical map of quasi-coherent $\mathcal{O}_ X$-modules

$\mathcal{O}_ X \longrightarrow i_{0, *}\mathcal{O}_{Z_0} \oplus i_{1, *}\mathcal{O}_{Z_1}$

is surjective (look at stalks at geometric points). Since $H^1(X, -)$ is zero on the kernel of this map the induced map of global sections is surjective. Thus we can find $a \in A$ which maps to the global section $(0, 1)$ of the right hand side. $\square$

In your comment you can use Markdown and LaTeX style mathematics (enclose it like $\pi$). A preview option is available if you wish to see how it works out (just click on the eye in the toolbar).