Having trouble working with modules

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of modules, specifically the challenges of defining the group of integers as an F-module where F is a field. Participants explore the implications of this definition, particularly in relation to vector spaces and representation theory.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why the group of integers cannot be an F-module with the left action defined as the identity, suggesting that if it were possible, Z would be a vector space.
  • Another participant raises questions about whether the axioms of module theory, such as (f+f')z = fz + f'z and 0z = 0, hold in this context.
  • A participant expresses a desire to understand modules better and indicates they are exploring representation theory and group algebras.
  • There is a discussion about the left action of group elements on a vector space and whether the axiom (g+h)v = g.v + h.v holds, with one participant suggesting it may not apply since g+h isn't a basis element.
  • One participant acknowledges a mistake regarding the status of (g+h) as a basis element, leading to further confusion about how to establish the left action as the identity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty and confusion regarding the axioms of modules and the implications of defining the left action as the identity. There is no consensus on the resolution of these issues, and multiple viewpoints are presented.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the definitions and properties of modules and representation theory, indicating potential limitations in their understanding of the axioms and their applications in specific cases.

wizard147
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Hi guys,

Basically I'm playing around with modules at the moment, and I can't work out why we can't have the group of integers as an F-module (F a field), where the left action is the identity.

i.e F x Z ----> Z

where we have f.z = z

f in F, z in Z

If this were possible, then Z would be a vector space wouldn't it, this is probably a stupid question but would be grateful if somebody could point out where I'm going wrong, I've been trying to work it out for hours.

Thanks!

C
 
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Does the axiom

[tex](f+f^\prime)z=fz+f^\prime z[/tex]

Still hold??

What about 0z=0 ??
 
Ahhh, so simple!

Thank you so much, I think i'll noodle around with them a bit more so I can understand them better.

Really appreciate it.

C
 
micromass said:
Does the axiom

[tex](f+f^\prime)z=fz+f^\prime z[/tex]

Still hold??

What about 0z=0 ??
Another question for you :),

I've been playing around with these and had a look at a bit of representation theory.

I was looking at group algebra's, where G is a finite group, and \mathbb{C} is our field. I was trying to find a C[G] module, V, that has a left action is the basis of C[G] (i.e. group elements of G) on V as the identity map,

i.e. g.v=v where g \in{G}I wasn't sure if the axiom (g+h).v = g.v + h.v held, but I think its to do with the fact that g+h isn't a basis element and thus

(g+h).v \neq v

and that the axiom holds trivially as our left action is a group homomorphism

i.e. (g+h).v = g.v + h.v by definition

am I right in saying this, otherwise I can't work out how we get the identity rep for group algebra's under the correspondence theorem in representation theory.

Thanks in advance

Sorry if this is unclear, just say if you can't work out what I'm trying to say

C
 
Yes, that seems right indeed!
 
Awesome, cheers Micromass!

C
 
micromass said:
Yes, that seems right indeed!
Ah wait no,

What I said that (g+h) isn't a basis element is wrong. It is an element of G and thus a basis element. Therefore we have

(g+h).v = g.v +h.v

implies v=v+v

So I'm still stuck as to how we can get left action to be the identity.

thought we almost had it!

C
 
Last edited:

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