Finite simple group with prime index subgroup

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In the discussion about finite simple groups and prime index subgroups, it is established that if G is a finite simple group and H is a subgroup of prime index p, then p is the largest prime divisor of the order of G, and p^2 does not divide the order of G. The reasoning involves the core of H being trivial, leading to the conclusion that G can be embedded in a symmetric group of order p!. The participant confirms their understanding that if p is prime and |G| divides p!, then p^2 cannot divide |G|. The proof is validated by referencing a related theorem, affirming the correctness of the reasoning presented. Overall, the discussion clarifies the properties of finite simple groups in relation to their subgroups of prime index.
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Homework Statement



If G is a finite simple group and
H is a subgroup of prime index p
Then
1. p is the largest prime divisor of \left|G\right| (the order of G)
2. p2 doesn't divide \left|G\right|

I think I have this proved, but want to confirm my reasoning is sound.
this problem is from intro to group theory by rose. it is problem 192 on p 75 in the chapter on group actions on sets, including embedding finite groups in symmetric groups.

thanks in advance for help

Homework Equations



related theorem: if H is of finite index in G, then G/HG, where HG is the largest normal subgroup of G contained in H, (that is the core of H in G) can be embedded in the symmetric group on \left|G: H \right| objects.

The Attempt at a Solution



the core must be = 1 or G since G is simple (yes?).
and it can't be G since G isn't contained in H.
..
the theorem above implies, since HG is going to be 1 , that G/HG = G can be embedded in S\left|G: H \right|, which has order p!.

from here I think I am supposed to assume that there is a prime q that divides G. but then it would divide p!, and that means it would have to be less that p.

I believe this implies conclusion 1. Yes?
As to part 2, ...
Since the core is normal, the subgroup isomorphism theorem (I think) gives
\left|G/ H_{G}\right|= \left[G<img src="/styles/physicsforums/xenforo/smilies/arghh.png" class="smilie" loading="lazy" alt=":H" title="Gah! :H" data-shortname=":H" />\right] \left[H<img src="/styles/physicsforums/xenforo/smilies/arghh.png" class="smilie" loading="lazy" alt=":H" title="Gah! :H" data-shortname=":H" />_{G}\right] = p \left[H<img src="/styles/physicsforums/xenforo/smilies/arghh.png" class="smilie" loading="lazy" alt=":H" title="Gah! :H" data-shortname=":H" />_{G}\right]
therefore, since the core is trivial.
\left|G\right|= p \left[H\right]
now the order of G has to be less that p!
so the order of H has to less that p-1!, which means that p can't divide it, so p2 can't divide G.

Did I get it, or have I fooled myself?
 
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For part 2, you are thinking too hard. If p is prime, and you know that |G| divides p!, can p^2 divide |G|?
 
duh! Thinking too hard is what I do. I think.

(I was fooled because I was following copying the steps of a related proof on the same page...)

otherwise proof ok?

thanks tads for the reply...much obliged!
 
Assuming the "related theorem" you cite, yes, your proof is correct.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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