Purchase Solution

finite Abelian group

Not what you're looking for?

Ask Custom Question

Suppose that G is a finite Abelian group and G has no element of order 2. Show that the mapping g-->g^2 is an automorphism of G. Show, by example, that if G is infinite the mapping need not be an automorphism (hint: consider Z).

Purchase this Solution

Solution Summary

The solution shows that the mapping g-->g^2 is an automorphism of G. Show, by example, that if G is infinite the mapping need not be an automorphism (hint: consider Z).

Solution Preview

It is given that G is a finite Abelian group, and has no element of order 2.
Let us denote the mapping g - > g^2, by f. That is, define f: G -> G as
f(g) = g^2, for all elements g of G

In order to show that f is an automorphism, we must show that f is an isomorphism that is onto (that is, we must show that the f is a homomorphism from that is injective, and also surjective - that f(G), the image of G, is G itself).

Step 1:
First, prove that f is a homomorphism:
Let a and b be two elements of G
Then f(a)f(b) = (a^2)(b^2)
= (ab)^2 [Since G is Abelian]
= f(ab)
Hence, f is a homomorphism.

Step 2:
Prove that f is injective:
Since G has no element of order 2:
for any element g in G, g^2 = e implies that g = e (where e is the identity element)
Therefore, f(g) = e implies that g = e [Since f(g) = g^2]
Thus the kernel of f, is
ker f = {e} [Definition: ker f = {g in G | f(g) = e}]
But the kernel of a homomorphism is trivial (consists only of the identity element) if and only if it is injective.
Hence, f is injective

Step 3:
Prove that f is surjective (onto):
Since G is finite, and f is injective:
f is an injective function between two sets of the same cardinality (the "two" sets here being G itself)
Therefore, f is surjective

Thus, f is an automorphism of G.
QED.

Now we have to show, by example, that f need not be an automorphism if G is infinite.
Consider the set of integers Z, under the operation of addition. It is easily shown that Z forms a ...

Purchase this Solution


Free BrainMass Quizzes
Probability Quiz

Some questions on probability

Solving quadratic inequalities

This quiz test you on how well you are familiar with solving quadratic inequalities.

Geometry - Real Life Application Problems

Understanding of how geometry applies to in real-world contexts

Know Your Linear Equations

Each question is a choice-summary multiple choice question that will present you with a linear equation and then make 4 statements about that equation. You must determine which of the 4 statements are true (if any) in regards to the equation.

Graphs and Functions

This quiz helps you easily identify a function and test your understanding of ranges, domains , function inverses and transformations.