MHB Can k[x1,...,xn] be Isomorphically Mapped to k[x1]⊗k⋯⊗k[xn]?

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    2015
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The discussion centers on proving the isomorphism between the polynomial ring k[x1,...,xn] and the tensor product k[x1]⊗k⋯⊗k[xn]. Participants are encouraged to explore the properties of polynomial rings and tensor products to establish this relationship. The problem remains unanswered in the thread, indicating a potential challenge in finding a solution. A solution is provided by the thread's author, but it is not discussed further by other participants. This highlights the complexity of the topic and the need for deeper engagement with the material.
Euge
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Let $k$ be a field, and $x_1,\ldots, x_n$ indeterminates. Show that there is an isomorphism

$$k[x_1,\ldots, x_n] \approx k[x_1]\otimes_k \cdots \otimes_k k[x_n].$$
-----Remember to read the http://www.mathhelpboards.com/showthread.php?772-Problem-of-the-Week-%28POTW%29-Procedure-and-Guidelines to find out how to http://www.mathhelpboards.com/forms.php?do=form&fid=2!
 
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No one answered this week's problem. You can read my solution below.

There is a $k$-multilinear map $\Phi : k[x_1]\times \cdots \times k[x_n] \to k[x_1,\ldots, x_n]$ given by $\Phi(f_1(x_1),\ldots, f_n(x_n)) = f_1(x_1)\cdots f_n(x_n)$. So $\Phi$ induces a $k$-linear map $F : k[x_1]\otimes_R \cdots \otimes_R k[x_n]$ such that $F(f_1(x_1)\otimes\cdots \otimes f_n(x_n)) = f_1(x_1)\cdots f_n(x_n)$. The map $G : k[x_1,\ldots, x_n] \to k[x_1]\otimes_k \cdots \otimes_k k[x_n]$ be defined by setting

$$G(\sum_{i_1,\ldots i_n} a_{i_1,\ldots, i_n}x_1^{i_1}\cdots x_n^{i_n}) = \sum_{i_1,\ldots, i_n} a_{i_1,\ldots, i_n} x_1^{i_1}\otimes \cdots \otimes x_n^{i_n}.$$

Then $GF$ is the identity on $k[x_1]\otimes_k \cdots \otimes_k k[x_n]$ and $FG$ is the identity on $k[x_1,\ldots, x_n]$. So $F$ is invertible, and hence $F$ is an isomorphism.

In general, if $R$ is a commutative ring, then there is an $R$-algebra isomorphism of $R[x_1,\ldots, x_n]$ onto $R[x_1]\otimes_R \cdots \otimes_R R[x_n]$.
 

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