Finite subgroups of unique orders are normal

[redone632]

Homework Statement

Let G be a finite group and H a subgroup of G having order m. Show that if H is the only subgroup of order m in G, then H is normal in G.

Homework Equations

A subgroup H of G is normal in G if and only if xHx^{-1} \subseteq H \forall x \in G

The Attempt at a Solution

Suppose that H is the only subgroup of order m. Then elements in G\H cannot have order m.

If x \in H then clearly, xHx^{-1} \subseteq H

If x \notin H that is, x \in G \backslash H so |x| \neq m then ...

This is where I'm not seeing anything. Any help to point me in the right direction would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Dick]

Is xHx^(-1) a subgroup? How many elements does it have?

 

[redone632]

Is xHx^(-1) a subgroup? How many elements does it have?

Since H is a subgroup of order m, xHx^(-1) will be a subgroup of order m. Since H is the only subgroup of order m there will be no other subgroup such that xKx^(-1) is of order m. Therefore, xHx^(-1) = H.

I think that's it, but I can't connect the dots to the last statement.

 

[Dick]

I don't see the problem. If xHx^(-1) is a subgroup of order m, and H is the ONLY subgroup of order m, then xHx^(-1) must be the same subgroup as H. What's K got to do with it?

 

[redone632]

I don't see the problem. If xHx^(-1) is a subgroup of order m, and H is the ONLY subgroup of order m, then xHx^(-1) must be the same subgroup as H. What's K got to do with it?

Oh wow, I swear I miss the most obvious things. Thanks for your help again!