Simple Problem - Establishing an Isomorphism

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In summary, Dummit and Foote establish an isomorphism between the tensor product $S \otimes_R R$ and the module $S$, using two homomorphisms $\Phi$ and $\Phi'$ defined as $ \Phi (s \otimes r ) = sr$ and $ {\Phi}' (s) = s \otimes 1$. They show that $\Phi\Phi' = I$ and $\Phi'\Phi = 1_S$, proving that these homomorphisms are bijective and therefore isomorphisms. This is a result of the bilinearity of the tensor product and the fact that the identity map on $S \otimes_R R$ is an $S$-linear
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In Example 7 in Dummit and Foote, Section 10.4. pages 369-370 (see attachment) D&F are seeking to establish an isomorphism:

\(\displaystyle S \otimes_R R \cong S \)

They establish the existence of two S-module homomorphisms:

\(\displaystyle \Phi \ : \ S \otimes_R R \to S \)

defined by \(\displaystyle \Phi (s \otimes r ) = sr \)

and

\(\displaystyle {\Phi}' \ : \ S \to S \otimes_R R \)

defined by \(\displaystyle {\Phi}' (s) = s \otimes 1 \)D&F then show that \(\displaystyle \Phi {\Phi}' = I \) where I is the identity function on simple tensors ...

How does this establish that \(\displaystyle S \otimes_R R \cong S \) ... presumably this establishes \(\displaystyle \Phi \) as a bijective homomorphism ... but how exactly ...

Peter
 
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A bijective homomorphism is also called an isomorphism...

To be a bit more clear, let us suppose we have two $R$-module homomorphisms:

$f:M \to N$
$g: N \to M$

such that $g \circ f = 1_M$, the identity map on $M$.

Claim 1: $g$ is surjective.

Let $m \in M$. Then $m = g(f(m))$ so that $m$ has the pre-image under $g$ of $f(m)$.

Claim 2: $f$ is injective.

Suppose $f(m) = f(m')$. Then $m - m' = g(f(m)) - g(f(m')) = g(f(m) - f(m')) = g(0) = 0$, so $m = m'$.

Now, if we already know $f$ is surjective, this means $f$ is bijective, hence an isomorphism (and $g$ is also likewise an isomorphism).

Since any $s \in S$ has the pre-image (under $\Phi$) $s \otimes 1$, $\Phi$ is clearly surjective.

By showing $\Phi'\Phi$ is the identity on simple tensors, it follows from the bilinearity of $\otimes$ that it is the identity on any SUM of simple tensors, that is, on any tensor.

(it should be clear that the identity map $I$ on $S\otimes_R R$ is indeed an $S$-linear map).

(EDIT: you have the composition order of $\Phi$ and $\Phi'$ reversed)

(EDIT #2: D&F also show that $\Phi\Phi' = 1_S$ which means these morphisms are two-sided inverses of each other, hence each is a bijection).
 
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FAQ: Simple Problem - Establishing an Isomorphism

What is an isomorphism?

An isomorphism is a mathematical concept that describes a one-to-one correspondence between two structures. In simpler terms, it means that two things are essentially the same despite having different names or symbols.

Why is establishing an isomorphism important?

Establishing an isomorphism is important because it allows us to recognize and understand patterns and relationships between different structures. It also helps us to simplify complex problems and make connections between seemingly unrelated concepts.

What is a simple problem in the context of establishing an isomorphism?

A simple problem in the context of establishing an isomorphism is one where we are trying to prove or disprove that two structures are isomorphic. This involves finding a mapping between the two structures that preserves their properties and relationships.

How do you establish an isomorphism?

To establish an isomorphism, you first need to understand the properties and relationships of the two structures that you are trying to map. Then, you need to find a function or mapping that preserves these properties and relationships. Finally, you need to prove that this mapping is both one-to-one and onto, meaning that it is a bijective function.

What are some applications of isomorphism?

Isomorphism has various applications in different fields such as mathematics, computer science, and chemistry. In mathematics, it is used to solve problems in abstract algebra and topology. In computer science, it is used in data structures and algorithms. In chemistry, it is used to study the properties and structures of molecules.

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