Physics Forums (http://www.physicsforums.com/index.php)
-   Linear & Abstract Algebra (http://www.physicsforums.com/forumdisplay.php?f=75)

 zack_vt Jan13-12 01:08 PM

Question regarding quadratic-like residues in (Z/pZ)[i].

Hi all.

I'm working in the set that is formed by extending the integers mod p (p is prime and equal to 3 mod 4) by including i = $\sqrt{-1}$: (Z/pZ)[i]. I want to know if the exists a 'z' in (Z/pZ)[i] for a given non-zero element 'a' of Z/pZ such that 'a = z$\overline{z}$'. If anyone could point me in a fruitful direction on this I would be most grateful.

-Z

 morphism Jan13-12 06:25 PM

Re: Question regarding quadratic-like residues in (Z/pZ)[i].

You're basically asking if a is the sum of two squares in Z/pZ. This is true even if p != 3 mod 4. Try to mimic the proof of the fact that a prime = 1 mod 4 is the sum of two squares in Z.

For related material, you can try reading up on "formally real fields". (Z/pZ is a nonexample.)

 zack_vt Jan13-12 06:36 PM

Re: Question regarding quadratic-like residues in (Z/pZ)[i].

Many thanks!

 All times are GMT -5. The time now is 01:14 AM.