- #1
battousai
- 86
- 0
Outside of pure mathematics, where is group theory used?
What are the applications of group theory?
- Thread starter battousai
- Start date
In summary, group theory is used extensively in Mathematical Physics, cryptography, musicology, and in symmetric artistic design elements.
- #2
HallsofIvy
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
- 42,988
- 981
It is used extensively in Quantum Physics. For example, both Michael Tinkham and Volker Heine have written books titled "Group Theory and Quantum Physics".
Also group theory can be used to determine which polynomial equations can be solved in terms of radicals. (That was, in fact, the main reason for the development of group theory.) That is still mathematics but not what I would consider "pure" mathematics.
Also group theory can be used to determine which polynomial equations can be solved in terms of radicals. (That was, in fact, the main reason for the development of group theory.) That is still mathematics but not what I would consider "pure" mathematics.
- #3
Karlx
- 75
- 0
Yes, indeed.
Group theory is extensively applied in Theoretical Physics:
General and Spacial Relativity
Elementary Particles
Quantum Physics
Group theory is extensively applied in Theoretical Physics:
General and Spacial Relativity
Elementary Particles
Quantum Physics
- #4
SteveL27
- 799
- 7
You use group theory to solve Rubik's cube! I was going to post a link but there are so many I'll just give the Google search and you can pick and choose. There are books on the subject and even college courses.
http://www.google.com/search?sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&q=rubik's+cube+group+theory
http://www.google.com/search?sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&q=rubik's+cube+group+theory
- #5
Deveno
Science Advisor
Gold Member
MHB
- 2,726
- 6
it is also used in chemistry to study molecular symmetry (many chemicals have chemical properties that derive partially or wholly from the types of symmetry they possess). this is especialy important in crystallography and spectroscopy.
group theory is an important part of cryptography (the study of codes), and plays a prominent role in understanding such techniques as RSA encryption.
cyclic groups play a role in musicology, and form a mathematical basis for the 12-tone system.
group theory is important in algebraic topology, which finds application, among other things, in design of computer networks and communication systems.
finally, there is group theory in symmetric artistic design elements (the so-called "frieze groups" and "ornament groups") used in textiles, printing, wall-papers, tiling (especially in arabic mosques), and such common-place items as kaleidoscopes (reflections form a group).
in short, groups are everywhere! if you've ever "counted by 2's or 3's" you were using intuitively a natural group property of the integers. the shuffling of a deck of cards, rotating a sphere in space, even our way of using a circle to measure time, these are all groups at work in our everyday lives.
group theory is an important part of cryptography (the study of codes), and plays a prominent role in understanding such techniques as RSA encryption.
cyclic groups play a role in musicology, and form a mathematical basis for the 12-tone system.
group theory is important in algebraic topology, which finds application, among other things, in design of computer networks and communication systems.
finally, there is group theory in symmetric artistic design elements (the so-called "frieze groups" and "ornament groups") used in textiles, printing, wall-papers, tiling (especially in arabic mosques), and such common-place items as kaleidoscopes (reflections form a group).
in short, groups are everywhere! if you've ever "counted by 2's or 3's" you were using intuitively a natural group property of the integers. the shuffling of a deck of cards, rotating a sphere in space, even our way of using a circle to measure time, these are all groups at work in our everyday lives.
- #6
battousai
- 86
- 0
Thank you all. I'm learning the basics of it right now and I was just wondering where the hell it's used 
- #7
mathwonk
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
- 11,805
- 2,051
group theory is the mathematics of symmetry, so just think about the places where symmetry occurs.
FAQ: What are the applications of group theory?
What is group theory and what are its applications?
Group theory is a mathematical concept that studies symmetry and patterns within groups of objects. Its applications are diverse and can be found in fields such as physics, chemistry, cryptography, and computer science.
How is group theory used in physics?
Group theory is used extensively in physics to understand the fundamental laws of nature. It helps in describing the symmetries of physical systems, such as the symmetries of molecules, crystals, and subatomic particles. It also plays a crucial role in the development of quantum mechanics and the study of symmetries in the universe.
Can you explain the role of group theory in chemistry?
In chemistry, group theory is used to understand the structure and properties of molecules and crystals. It helps in predicting the possible shapes and arrangements of atoms in a molecule based on its symmetries. This knowledge is crucial in understanding chemical reactions and designing new molecules with specific properties.
How is group theory relevant in cryptography?
Group theory is used in cryptography to develop secure methods for communication. It helps in creating complex encryption algorithms and analyzing their strength against attacks. Group theory is also used in the design of secure digital signatures and authentication protocols.
What are the real-world applications of group theory in computer science?
In computer science, group theory is used in various applications such as coding theory, network security, and computer graphics. It also plays a significant role in data compression techniques and error-correcting codes. Additionally, group theory is used in the development of efficient algorithms for data processing and analysis.