Proving M is a Maximal Ideal of R: Commutative Rings and Prime Ideals

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In summary, the conversation discusses proving that M is a maximal ideal of R given that R is a commutative ring and M/I is a maximal ideal of R/I. The use of the isomorphism theorem and relationships between properties of I and R/I are suggested to solve the problem. It is ultimately shown that M is a maximal ideal of R.
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Homework Statement


R is a commutative ring, and normal to I, let M/I be a maximal ideal of R/I. Prove that M is a maximal ideal of R?

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The Attempt at a Solution


Not sure where to begin, but I think since we know R is commutative then we can say R/I is commutative and since M/I is an ideal of R/I we just need to show that M/I is also prime? But I could be completely off
 
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  • #2
Have you seen the following isomorphism theorem:

There exists a bijection between ideals of R which contain I and ideals of R/I.

I usually call that the fourth isomorphism theorem, but other names or also often used. Now, I suggest you use that bijection...
 
  • #3
I'm fond of the various relationships between properties of an ideal I in a ring R, and properties of the quotient ring R/I, myself.
 
  • #4
So Let M/I be a maximal ideal of R/I and R is commutative ring, So we need to show that M is maximal ideal of R, let H be an ideal of R such that M [tex]\subseteq[/tex] H [tex]\subseteq[/tex] R and every ideal is a sub-ring, then H is a sub ring of R. Therefore M is a sub-ring of H [tex]\subseteq[/tex] R, H is normal to I. Then we have M/I is subset of H/I is an ideal of R/I. And we have M/I [tex]\subseteq[/tex] H/I [tex]\subseteq[/tex] R/I and M/I is a maximal. By definition of maximal ideal M/I = H/I or R/I = H/I if M/I = H/I then M = H if H/I = R/I then H = R thus M is a maximal ideal of R
 

FAQ: Proving M is a Maximal Ideal of R: Commutative Rings and Prime Ideals

What is a maximal ideal in a commutative ring?

A maximal ideal in a commutative ring is an ideal that is not contained in any other proper ideal of the ring. In other words, it is not possible to add any more elements to the ideal without creating the entire ring. Maximal ideals are an important concept in ring theory and are closely related to prime ideals.

How do you prove that an ideal M is maximal in a commutative ring R?

To prove that an ideal M is maximal in a commutative ring R, you need to show that M is not contained in any other proper ideal of R. This can be done by assuming that there exists another ideal N that properly contains M and then showing that this leads to a contradiction. Another approach is to show that the quotient ring R/M is a field, which is a necessary condition for M to be maximal.

Can a commutative ring have more than one maximal ideal?

Yes, a commutative ring can have more than one maximal ideal. In fact, it is possible for a commutative ring to have infinitely many maximal ideals, as is the case for the ring of integers. However, if a commutative ring has only one maximal ideal, it is called a maximal ring. Maximal rings have special properties and are often studied in ring theory.

What is the relationship between maximal ideals and prime ideals?

Maximal ideals and prime ideals are closely related concepts in commutative ring theory. Every maximal ideal is a prime ideal, but the converse is not necessarily true. This means that every maximal ideal is a subset of a prime ideal, but there can be prime ideals that are not maximal. In fact, a commutative ring R is a field if and only if the only prime ideals of R are maximal ideals.

Can a commutative ring have no maximal ideals?

Yes, it is possible for a commutative ring to have no maximal ideals. This is the case for the ring of rational numbers, where every proper ideal is contained in a larger proper ideal. Rings with no maximal ideals are called von Neumann regular rings and have interesting properties, such as every element being idempotent (meaning that a^2=a).

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