Definition of induced representation

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the definition of a group element's action on a vector in the context of induced representations. It clarifies that the action is defined as g(σv) := τ(hv), where τ is the unique left coset of G/H containing g gσ. The confusion arises from the arbitrariness of the element h in the equation g gσ = gτh, but it is resolved by recognizing that once a set of representatives for cosets is established, they cannot be altered, ensuring that gσ remains a representative.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of group theory concepts, particularly cosets and group actions.
  • Familiarity with induced representations in the context of abstract algebra.
  • Knowledge of left cosets and their properties within a group.
  • Basic comprehension of vector spaces and their relation to group actions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of left cosets in group theory.
  • Explore the concept of representatives of cosets in detail.
  • Learn about the implications of group actions on vector spaces.
  • Investigate induced representations in various algebraic structures.
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, particularly those specializing in abstract algebra, students studying group theory, and researchers interested in the applications of induced representations in mathematical physics.

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http://planetmath.org/encyclopedia/InducedRepresentation.html
The thing I don't get is the definition of a group element [itex]g[/itex]'s action on a vector [itex]\sigma v[/itex]. In the link it defines the action as [itex]g(\sigma v):=\tau (hv)[/itex], where [itex]\tau[/itex] is the unique left coset of G/H containing [itex]gg_{\sigma}[/itex](i.e. such that [itex]gg_{\sigma}=g_{\tau}h[/itex] for some h belonging to H).
The thing that confuses me is the arbitrariness of h, i.e., if [itex]gg_{\sigma}=g_{\tau}h[/itex], we can always have [itex]gg_{\sigma}=g_{\tau}h_1h_1^{-1}h=(g_{\tau}h_1)(h_1^{-1}h)[/itex], where [itex]h_1[/itex] is some arbitrary element of H. Now [itex]g_{\tau}h_1[/itex] still belongs to coset [itex]\tau[/itex], but [itex]h_1^{-1}h[/itex] will be a different element in H, say [itex]h_1^{-1}h=h'[/itex] , then according to the previous definition of group action, we have [itex]g(\sigma v):=\tau (h'v)[/itex]. So what shall I make of this arbitrariness?
 
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Ok I think I figured out my misunderstanding, once a set of representatives of cosets is chosen, you can't change it, so if [itex]g_{\sigma}[/itex] is a representative, then [itex]g_{\sigma}h_1[/itex] can't be on the list of representatives.
 

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