Abstract Algebra - Subgroup of Permutations

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving that the set G, consisting of permutations of the nonzero real numbers A, forms a subgroup of S_A. The elements of G are defined as e (identity), f (reciprocal), g (negation), and h (negation of reciprocal). Participants analyze the closure property and the existence of inverses within G, identifying errors in the calculations of products and inverses. The correct subgroup verification requires confirming that all products of elements in G remain within G and that each element has an inverse also in G.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of group theory concepts, specifically subgroups
  • Familiarity with permutations and their properties
  • Knowledge of the identity element in group structures
  • Basic algebraic manipulation of functions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of groups and subgroups in abstract algebra
  • Learn about permutation groups and their applications
  • Explore the concept of closure in group theory
  • Investigate the role of inverses in group operations
USEFUL FOR

Students of abstract algebra, mathematicians focusing on group theory, and anyone interested in the properties of permutations and subgroup structures.

iamalexalright
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Homework Statement


A is a subset of R and G is a set of permutations of A. Show that G is a subgroup of S_A (the group of all permutations of A). Write the table of G.


Onto the actual problem:
A is the set of all nonzero real numbers.
G={e,f,g,h}
where e is the identity element, f(x) = 1/x, g(x) = -x, h(x) = -1/x

Would this be the right way to do it?

For each combination of elements in G (call the elements a,b) I need to show
a*b is in G

I also need to show that the inverse of a is in G.

Here is where I get confused, I'll start with with a = e:

ee = e
ef = f
eg = g
eh = h

Okay, that is all good, now letting a = f:
fe = e
ff = e
fg = h
fh = g

now a = g:
ge = g !
gf = h
gg = g !
gh = e

now a = h:
he = h
hf = g !
hg = f
hh = g !

What am I doing wrong here?
 
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The following are wrong:

fe=e
gg=g
gh=e
hg=f
hh=g

What did you do to obtain those?
 

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