Math Problem Statement
Let G be a group and X ⊂ G a subset ( not necessarily a subgroup ) of G . Let H be the intersection of all subgroups of G that contain X . Show that H is a subgroup of G . It is called the subgroup of G generated by the subset X .
Solution
To show that is a subgroup of , we will use the definition of and apply the subgroup criteria. The set is defined as the intersection of all subgroups of that contain . We need to demonstrate that satisfies the subgroup properties.
Step-by-Step Solution
1. Definition of :
Let , where each is a subgroup of that contains . In other words, consists of all elements of that are in every subgroup containing .
2. Subgroup Criterion:
To show that is a subgroup of , we need to verify that it satisfies the following three conditions:
- is non-empty.
- is closed under the group operation.
- is closed under taking inverses.
3. Non-emptiness:
Since is a group, it contains the identity element . Every subgroup of must contain , because the identity is a required element of any group. Hence, each contains , so . Therefore, is non-empty because it contains at least the identity element .
4. Closed under the group operation:
Let . By the definition of , this means that for every subgroup containing . Since each is a subgroup, and subgroups are closed under the group operation, for every . Therefore, . Thus, is closed under the group operation.
5. Closed under taking inverses:
Let . By the definition of , for every subgroup containing . Since each is a subgroup, and subgroups are closed under taking inverses, for every . Therefore, . Thus, is closed under taking inverses.
Conclusion:
Since is non-empty, closed under the group operation, and closed under taking inverses, satisfies the subgroup criteria. Therefore, is a subgroup of .
This subgroup is called the subgroup of generated by the subset because it is the smallest subgroup of containing .
Would you like further details or have any questions?
Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:
- How does the subgroup generated by relate to the concept of a normal subgroup?
- Can the subgroup generated by be equal to ? Under what conditions?
- If is already a subgroup, how does change?
- How can you describe the subgroup generated by multiple elements?
- What is the free group generated by a set, and how does it relate to this subgroup?
Tip: Remember that any subgroup must always contain the identity element, inverses, and be closed under the group operation. This is crucial when determining subgroups.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Group Theory
Subgroups
Intersection of Subgroups
Formulas
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Theorems
Subgroup Criterion
Suitable Grade Level
University Level (Abstract Algebra)