Why is (x) a prime ideal in k[x,y]?

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SUMMARY

The ideal (x) in the polynomial ring k[x,y] is confirmed as a prime ideal, as established in Example (2) on page 682 of Dummit and Foote. To demonstrate that (x) is prime, one can apply the First Isomorphism Theorem, which states that the quotient ring k[X,Y]/(X) is an integral domain. This is achieved through the evaluation function P(X,Y) → P(0,Y), which maps polynomials in k[X,Y] to polynomials in k[Y]. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding these concepts in the context of ring theory.

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Example (2) on page 682 of Dummit and Foote reads as follows:

------------------------------------------------------------------------

(2) For any field k, the ideal (x) in k[x,y] is primary since it is a prime ideal.

... ... etc

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Now if (x) is prime then obviously (x) is primary BUT ...

How do we show that (x) is prime in k[x, y]?

Would appreciate some help

Peter
 
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Use the first isomorphism theorem to show that ##k[X,Y]/(X)## is an integral domain. The right function is the evaluation in ##0##:

k[X,Y]\rightarrow k[Y]:P(X,Y)\rightarrow P(0,Y)
 
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Thanks for the help, r136a1

Just checking and reflecting on the use of the First Isomorphism Theorem

Peter
 

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