Why do the conjugate classes of a group partition the group?

In summary, a class in a group G is defined as the set of all elements x in G such that there exists a g in G satisfying the equation gxg^(-1) = a or b. If an element y is a conjugate of both a and b, meaning it is in both class(a) and class(b), it does not necessarily mean that class(a) and class(b) are equal. There could be an element q that is in one class but not the other.
  • #1
PsychonautQQ
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Given an element a in a group G,
class(a) = {all x in G such that there exists a g in G such that gxg^(-1) = a}

class(b) = {all x in G such that there exists a g in G such that gxg^(-1) = b}

so let's say y is a conjugate of both a and b, so it is in both class(a) and class(b), does that mean that class(a) = class(b)?

given there is an element y that is in both class(a) and class(b), couldn't there be an element q that is in one class and not the other?
 
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I answered my own question, can't figure out how to delete this
 

Related to Why do the conjugate classes of a group partition the group?

Why do the conjugate classes of a group partition the group?

The conjugate classes of a group partition the group because they represent the different ways in which elements of the group can be transformed or mapped onto each other through conjugation. This partitioning allows us to better understand the structure and properties of the group.

How do we determine the conjugate classes of a group?

To determine the conjugate classes of a group, we first choose a specific element in the group and then apply all possible conjugations to it. The resulting elements will form a conjugate class. We repeat this process for every element in the group to identify all the conjugate classes.

What is the significance of conjugate classes in group theory?

Conjugate classes are important in group theory because they provide a way to classify and organize elements in a group. They also reveal important information about the structure and properties of the group, such as its subgroups and normal subgroups.

Can two different groups have the same conjugate classes?

Yes, it is possible for two different groups to have the same conjugate classes. This is because the conjugate classes of a group are determined by the group's structure and not by its specific elements. Therefore, groups with similar structures will have the same conjugate classes.

How are the normal subgroups of a group related to its conjugate classes?

The normal subgroups of a group are closely related to its conjugate classes. In fact, the conjugate classes of a group can be used to identify its normal subgroups. Specifically, a conjugate class is a normal subgroup if and only if it is a union of conjugate classes.

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