Let α (alpha) all in S_n be a cycle of length l. Prove that if α = τ_1 · · · τ_s, where τ_i are transpositions, then s geq l − 1.
I'm trying to get a better understanding of how to begin proofs. I'm always a little lost when trying to solve them.
I know that I want to somehow show that s is...
Homework Statement
Let α (alpha) all in S_n be a cycle of length l. Prove that if α = τ_1 · · · τ_s, where τ_i are transpositions, then s geq l − 1.Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
What I was actually looking for is where to start with this proof. I don't want the answer, just a...