Nontrivial Normal Subgroup in Finite Groups with Index Constraints?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a problem regarding finite groups, specifically the relationship between a subgroup's index and the existence of nontrivial normal subgroups. It states that for a finite group \( G \) with a subgroup \( H \) of index \( n \), if the order of \( G \) does not divide \( n! \), then \( H \) must contain a nontrivial normal subgroup of \( G \). This conclusion is drawn from group theory principles and highlights the significance of index constraints in subgroup structure.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of finite group theory
  • Familiarity with subgroup indices and normal subgroups
  • Knowledge of factorials and their properties in relation to group orders
  • Basic concepts of group homomorphisms and their implications
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of normal subgroups in finite groups
  • Explore the implications of Sylow theorems on subgroup structure
  • Learn about group actions and their role in subgroup analysis
  • Investigate examples of finite groups where the order does not divide \( n! \)
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, particularly those specializing in group theory, graduate students studying algebra, and researchers exploring subgroup properties in finite groups.

Euge
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Let $G$ be a finite group, and let $H$ be a subgroup of $G$ of index $n$. Prove that if the order of $G$ does not divide $n!$, then $H$ contains a nontrivial normal subgroup of $G$.

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No one answered this week's problem. You can read my solution below.

Let $G$ act on the set of left cosets of $H$ by left multiplication, and let $K$ be the kernel of the induced permutation representation. Then $K$ is the intersection of all conjugates of $H$, so $K$ is a normal subgroup of $G$ contained in $H$. Since $H$ has index $n$, $K$ has index dividing $n!$. Using the fact that $n!$ is not divisible by $|G|$, $K$ must be nontrivial.
 

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