What Are the Cosets in Q/Z(Q)?

In summary, the cosets in Q/Z(Q) are {1,-1}, {i,-i}, {j,-j}, and {k,-k}, with the operation being addition and Q being commutative. This can be determined by finding the center of Q and using its elements as representatives for each coset.
  • #1
missavvy
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Homework Statement


Find the cosets in Q/Z(Q)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



So Z(Q) is the centre of Q..
Then Z(Q) is normal in Q.

I don't get what the cosets would be without any given elements of Q or Z(Q)..
But I'm assuming since it is the centre of Q there is some trick?

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
What is Q here? The quaternion group? I will assume it is.

What is the center of Q? Does i commute with every element? does j? does k? does -1? etc.? Once you have determined the center you should be able to find representatives for every coset in Q/Z(Q).
 
  • #3
Hmm, is the operation simply addition? If so, Q is commutative, and Z(Q)=Q.
 
  • #4
I get:
{1,-1} = Z(Q)= Z(Q)(-1)
{i, -i} = Z(Q)i = Z(Q)(-i)
{j, -j} = Z(Q)j = Z(Q)(-j)
{k, -k} = Z(Q)k = Z(Q)(-k)

is this correct?
 
  • #5
Yes, this is correct. Sorry for the first answer, I thought Q ment rationals...
 

FAQ: What Are the Cosets in Q/Z(Q)?

What are cosets in a factor group?

Cosets in a factor group are subsets of a group that are formed by multiplying a fixed element of the group by all the elements of a subgroup.

How are cosets related to normal subgroups?

Normal subgroups are a special case of cosets, where the cosets are identical to the subgroup itself. In other words, all cosets in a normal subgroup are equal.

What is the significance of cosets in group theory?

Cosets play a crucial role in group theory as they help to partition a group into smaller, more manageable subsets. This allows for the study of the structure and properties of a group in a more systematic way.

Can cosets be used to determine the order of a group?

Yes, the number of distinct cosets of a subgroup in a group is equal to the index of the subgroup, which in turn is a factor of the order of the group. Therefore, cosets can be used to determine the order of a group.

How are cosets used in determining the normality of a subgroup?

If all the left cosets of a subgroup are equal to its right cosets, then the subgroup is normal. This is known as the "normal subgroup test" and is a commonly used method to determine the normality of a subgroup.

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