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If we replace the representative element with another one, g', will we obtain a different coset?

No, replacing the representative element g with another element g' from the same coset does not yield a different coset. If g' belongs to the same coset as g (i.e., g′∈gHg' \in gH), then the coset generated by g' is identical to the coset generated by g (g′H=gHg'H = gH). Coset representatives are not unique, but the coset itself is determined by the partition block.

Conditions

  • g and g' are both elements of the group G
  • g' and g belong to the same coset

Reasoning, step by step

  1. Identify that g' is in the same coset as g.
  2. Recognize that a coset is a subset of the group.
  3. Apply the property that any element within a coset can serve as its representative.
  4. Conclude that g′Hg'H and gHgH represent the exact same set of elements.

Example

The instructor asks, 'What if I replace g here with, say, g'? Would the statement still hold?' and answers, 'Actually, there is no such thing as g'; why? Because g' also falls into the same region as g.'

Common misconceptions

  • Believing that changing the representative element changes the coset itself.
  • Assuming that each coset has only one unique representative element.

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