How Do Cosets in the Gaussian Integer Ring Relate to Its Ideals?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding cosets in the context of the Gaussian integer ring, specifically relating to the ideal generated by the element \(2+i\). Participants are exploring the reasoning behind certain statements regarding cosets and their equivalences within the ideal.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the reasoning that leads to the conclusion \(i + A = -2 + A\), questioning the steps taken in the book.
  • Another participant challenges the initial reasoning, asserting that if \(a - b\) is in an ideal \(I\), then \(a + I = b + I\) holds true, suggesting that \(5 + A = 0 + A\) because \(5\) can be expressed as \(5 - 0\) which is in \(A\).
  • A participant acknowledges their struggle to prove the assertion regarding cosets and expresses frustration over their inability to do so.
  • Another participant attempts to clarify the reasoning by breaking down the steps, indicating that the first statement about \(i\) being equivalent to \(-2\) is valid and providing a sequence of equivalences to support this.
  • A later reply corrects a misunderstanding regarding the original statement about \(i + A\), indicating that a misinterpretation of the sign led to confusion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach consensus on the correctness of the initial reasoning regarding cosets. There are competing interpretations of the statements made in the book, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the validity of the claims.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the proof of the properties of cosets and ideals, indicating a potential gap in understanding the underlying mathematical principles. The discussion also reflects varying levels of familiarity with the concepts involved.

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Hi so this isn't homework its in my book , i just don't get it they skipped this step


Let R=Z(i) be the ring of gaussian integers and let A=(2+i)R denote the ideal of all multiples of 2+i Describe the cosets of R/A

im just having trouble understaning this step:

"Since 2+i is in A we have i+A=-2+A"

and then it does it again "Since 5 is in A 5+A=0+A"

why is this?

thanks
 
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The first one is, uh, wrong in its reasoning.

Note in general, if a-b is in an ideal I, then a+I = b+I. You should try proving this on your own. In particular, 5 = 5-0 is in A, so 5+A = 0+A
 
thanks Shredder:

I have no idea how to prove that I've been trying for an hour
 
I don't see why office shredder called the first piece of reasoning wrong. I'll write [a] for the coset a+I. The first statement is just

1) [2+i]= [0] (certainly true)

2) [2+i] + [-2] = [0] + [-2]

3) [2+i -2] = [0 - 2]

4) =[-2]

All fine there.

What part of the second bit is troubling you? Write out what you've done.
 
Whoops, I thought it said i+A = 2+A. Missed the - sign there
 

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