Proving Existence of Element of Order n in Finite Group via Homomorphism

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving that if a homomorphism \(\phi\) from a finite group \(G\) onto \(G'\) exists, and \(G'\) contains an element \(g'\) of order \(n\), then \(G\) must also contain an element of order \(n\). Key properties of homomorphisms, such as \(\phi(a*b) = \phi(a) * \phi(b)\) and \(\phi(a^n) = (\phi(a))^n\), are utilized in the proof. The conversation highlights the necessity of understanding the relationship between elements in \(G\) and their preimages in \(G'\) to establish the existence of an element of the same order.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of group theory concepts, specifically finite groups.
  • Familiarity with homomorphisms and their properties.
  • Knowledge of subgroup properties and the concept of order of an element.
  • Basic understanding of kernel and image in group homomorphisms.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of homomorphisms in group theory.
  • Learn about the subgroup divisibility theorem and its applications.
  • Explore the concept of preimages of subgroups in finite groups.
  • Investigate examples of finite groups and their elements' orders.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students and researchers in abstract algebra, particularly those studying group theory, homomorphisms, and their implications in finite groups.

strangequark
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Homework Statement


Suppose that \phi is a homomorphism from a finite group G onto G' and that G' has an element (g') of order n. Prove that G has an element of order n.

Homework Equations


for a homomorphism,
1) \phi(a*b)=\phi(a)*\phi(b)
2) \phi(a^{n})=(\phi(a))^{n}
3) \phi(e_{G})=e_{G'}


The Attempt at a Solution



It is clear to me that G will contain some non-identity element, say g, which is the preimage of g'. By property 2) that I listed above, g^{8} is obviously an element of the kernal of G, and the homomorphism is not the trivial map because g^{n} for 0<n<8 is not the identity in G and doesn't map to the identity in G'. Basically, I'm seeing that g^{8} maps to the identity in G', but I don't understand why this implies that g^{8}=e...

I would really appreciate a kick in the right direction... thanks
 
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You're completely right. It doesn't imply g^8 = e. You're going to have to do a bit more work than just finding an element of the preimage of g'. Unfortunately, I'm having trouble coming up with the exact proof off the top of my head, so I can't give you much of a kick in the right direction. Look at some properties of preimages of subgroups maybe?
 
Let T(a)^8=I', then a has to have an order n*8, and (a^n)^8=I
This is also summarized by some subgroup divisibility theorem; but it's been to long for me to remember.
For an Image: Imagine a large gear driving a small gear but every tooth of the large gear strikes the same tooth of the small gear on every revolution.
 

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