Permutation as a Product of Transposition

In summary, the conversation is about proving a theorem that states every permutation S_n where n>1 is a product of 2 cycles. The person is confused about the proof and asks for help. The suggested proof is to write each permutation as a product of cycles and then explain how each cycle is a product of transpositions. The person is still unclear about how the formula was derived.
  • #1
liger123
2
0
hi guys.. can you help me prove this theorem?
Every permutation S_n where n>1 is a product of 2 cycles..
i got a little confused with some books' proof..thnx
 
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  • #2
Can you show some work you've done on this?

The proof that comes to mind for me is to write each permutation as a product of cycles (you know how to do this, right?), and then you can explicitly describe how each cycle is a product of transpositions. For example, (1234) = (14)(13)(12).
 
  • #3
Yes, the thing that i don't understand is how the formula was derived. this is the formula
(a_1, a_k) (a_1, a_k-1) ... (a_1, a_2).
 

Related to Permutation as a Product of Transposition

1. What is a permutation as a product of transposition?

A permutation as a product of transposition is a mathematical concept that represents a rearrangement or reordering of a set of elements. It is expressed as a sequence of transpositions, which are operations that swap the position of two elements in the set.

2. How is a permutation as a product of transposition written?

A permutation as a product of transposition is typically written in cycle notation, where the elements in the set are enclosed in parentheses and separated by commas. For example, (1,2)(3,4) represents a permutation that swaps the positions of 1 and 2, and 3 and 4 in the set.

3. What is the significance of using transpositions in permutations?

Using transpositions in permutations allows for a more efficient way of representing and understanding rearrangements of elements in a set. It also allows for easier calculations and analysis of permutations.

4. Can any permutation be expressed as a product of transposition?

Yes, any permutation can be expressed as a product of transposition. This is known as the decomposition theorem, which states that any permutation can be written as a sequence of transpositions.

5. How is a permutation as a product of transposition calculated?

A permutation as a product of transposition can be calculated by breaking down the permutation into cycles and then expressing each cycle as a sequence of transpositions. The order in which the transpositions are performed does not affect the final result.

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