How to Prove |G:H| = |G:K||K:H| for Quotient Groups?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the relationship |G:H| = |G:K||K:H| for quotient groups, particularly in the context of group theory. Participants explore various approaches to this problem, including references to Lagrange's theorem and the lattice isomorphism theorem.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in proving the relationship and seeks guidance on where to start.
  • Another participant questions whether Lagrange's theorem has been covered, implying its relevance to the discussion.
  • A subsequent reply challenges the assumption that the groups involved are finite, suggesting that the proof may not rely on this condition.
  • A later contribution introduces the lattice isomorphism theorem and discusses the isomorphism between (G/K)/(K/H) and G/H, assuming normal subgroups.
  • One participant outlines a counting argument involving cosets to show that [G:H] ≤ [G:K][K:H], indicating a direction of the proof while leaving the other direction open for consideration.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the assumptions regarding the finiteness of the groups or the completeness of the proof, indicating that multiple views remain on how to approach the problem.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the finiteness of the groups and the conditions under which the theorems are applied. The discussion also reflects varying levels of familiarity with the relevant theorems and concepts.

Pjennings
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As a way to keep busy in between semesters I decided to work my way through Algebra by Dummit and Foote in order to prepare for the fall. Working my way through quotient groups is proving to be quite difficult and as a result I'm stuck on an exercise that looks simple, but I just don't know where to start. Any ideas how to prove that given H\leqK\leqG |G:H|=|G:K||K:H|?
 
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Have they not gone through Lagrange's theorem yet?
 
eok20 said:
Have they not gone through Lagrange's theorem yet?
Who said any of the groups were finite?
 
Martin Rattigan said:
Who said any of the groups were finite?

good point.
 
Lattice isomorphism theorem. Assuming those are normal subgroups, (G/K)/(K/H) is isomorphic to G/H.

Of course, it's not hard to just count the number of cosets. G = g_1K + ... + g_nK where n = [G:K]. K = k_1H + ... + k_mH, where m = [H:K]. Then G = g_1(k_1 + ... + k_m)H + ... + g_n(k_1+...+k_m)H, where I have abused notation a little. This shows [G:H]<=[G:K][K:H]. Now think about the other direction.
 

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