G must have an element with no fixed point when there is only one orbit

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a problem in group theory regarding a finite group G operating on a set S with only one orbit. The conclusion drawn is that there must exist an element x in G that has no fixed point, meaning for all s in S, xs ≠ s. The relevant theorem states that the order of the orbit Gs equals the index of the stabilizer group G_s in G. The participant's initial argument was flawed due to incorrect quantifier usage, which led to a misunderstanding of the implications of fixed points in relation to the size of the orbit.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of group theory concepts, specifically finite groups and orbits.
  • Familiarity with stabilizer groups and their role in group actions.
  • Knowledge of quantifiers in mathematical logic.
  • Experience with graduate-level algebra, particularly Lang's Algebra.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of group actions in detail, focusing on orbits and stabilizers.
  • Review the relevant theorem on the relationship between orbit size and stabilizer index.
  • Practice problems involving fixed points and group actions to solidify understanding.
  • Explore advanced topics in group theory, such as the application of Sylow theorems in finite groups.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying group theory, particularly those preparing for exams in abstract algebra, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to group actions and fixed points.

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I am studying for a modterm on Monday and asking for help on the homework questions I got WRONG on my problem sets (so I can hopefully improve my understanding and see my mistake). This is my reworked version of the incorrect HW problem and I would like to know if I am on the right track...

Problem
Let G be a finite group operating on a set S ( |S| >=2 ). Suppose there exists only one orbit. Prove there exists an x \in G which has no fixed point (ie xs \neq s for all s \in S)

Relevant theorem
Let G be a group operating on a set S and s \in S . Then the order of the orbit Gs is equal to the index of G_s (stabalizer group or isotropy group in Lang) in G

My attempt
Suppose every point in G has a fixed point. Then for every x \in G, xs=s \in S. From this (G:G_s) =1. **Since there is only one orbit, (G:G_s)=|S| which implies |S|=1, a contradiction.

I have a feeling that my argument falls apart at **. Any guidance to the flaws inmky logic and/or understanding would be useful. I am working from Lang's Algebra (graduate level).
 
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I don't think the stabilizer group will be too useful here.
G_s = g \in G such that gs=s.
This statement of yours is wrong:
"suppose every point in G has a fixed point. Then for every g \in G, gs=s \in S."

you are getting your quantifiers mixed up. it should be

"suppose every point in G has a fixed point. Then for every g \in G, there exists s\in S such that gs=s \in S."
 

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