Prove map σ:y→xyx⁻¹ is bijective

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves proving that the map σ:y→xyx⁻¹ is bijective, where G is a group and x is an element of G. The original poster notes an assumption about y being in G and discusses the definitions of injective and surjective functions in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to establish injectivity by showing that if y1≠y2, then xy1x⁻¹≠xy2x⁻¹, and discusses surjectivity by proposing y=x⁻¹gx. Some participants suggest exploring the contrapositive for injectivity, while others question the simplicity of the approach.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the definitions of injective and surjective, with some guidance provided on alternative methods for proving injectivity. There is a general sense of agreement on the validity of the surjective argument, but no explicit consensus has been reached regarding the injective proof.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted assumption that y is an element of G, which is not explicitly stated in the problem. The discussion also reflects on the nature of the proof and the clarity of the definitions involved.

catherinenanc
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1. Let G be any group and x∈G. Let σ be the map σ:y→xyx⁻¹. Prove that this map is bijective.
It seems to be written strangely, since it never really says anywhere that y is in G, but I guess that must be an assumption.2. bijective=injective+surjective.
in order to prove injective, we need to show that y1≠y2→xy1x⁻¹≠xy2x⁻¹
and in order to prove surjective, we need to show that for every g in G, there exists a y in G such that xyx^-1=g.

3. I think that I can say: Let y=x^-1gx. Then xyx-1=g and we are done for surjective.
I don't really know how to "show" injective, since it seems obvious.
 
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Instead of showing ##y_1\ne y_2 \to xy_1x^{-1}\ne xy_2x^{-1}## try showing the contrapositive.
 
So I show that xy1x-1=xy2x-1→y1=y2 by simply left-multiplyng both sides by x-1 and right-multiplying both sides by x? Is that too simple?

Also, does my thinking on surjective work?
 
Yes, it all looks OK to me.
 
Ok, thanks!
 

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