Are G & H Isomorphic? Prove Answer | Group of 2x2 Matrices

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on whether the group G of 2x2 invertible upper triangular matrices and the group H of 2x2 invertible lower triangular matrices are isomorphic. Participants explore the properties of these groups under multiplication and consider potential isomorphisms.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant initially believed G and H were isomorphic but could not find an isomorphism, leading to the belief that they are not isomorphic.
  • Another participant suggested that transposition might be a candidate for an isomorphism, noting that it maps upper triangular matrices to lower triangular ones, but pointed out that it does not preserve the group operation.
  • A different participant argued against the possibility of an isomorphism by stating that if such an isomorphism existed, it would have to satisfy certain properties, such as f(-A) = -f(A) for all matrices A in G and mapping the subgroup of diagonal matrices to itself.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether G and H are isomorphic. There are competing views, with some participants believing they are not isomorphic and others exploring potential isomorphisms.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the existence of an isomorphism and the implications of properties that an isomorphism would need to satisfy. The discussion does not resolve these uncertainties.

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Let G be the group of 2x2 invertible upper triangular matrices and H be the group of 2x2 invertible lower triangular matrices (both groups under multiplication). Are G and H isomorphic? Prove answer.

First I thought they were isomorphic, but couldn't find an isomorphism, so now I believe they are not isomorphic, but can't pinpoint exactly why.
Any suggestions?
 
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Transposition is a good first guess for an isomorphism, since the transpose of an upper triangular matrix is lower triangular, and vice-versa. But transposition isn't a homomorphism, since (AB)^T=B^TA^T (the order gets reversed). Kind of like how (AB)^{-1}=B^{-1}A^{-1}. Can you combine them?
 
Tinyboss, Why do you say it is a good first guess. As you mention, the order gets reversed.
I don't think they are isomorphic. I know that if there was an isomorphism f, then f(-A)= -f(A) for all matrices A in G. Also, f would map the subgroup D of diagonal matrices to itself.
 
Read the last sentence in tinyboss's reply...
 
Ohh, of course.
Thank you guys.
 

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