Skip to content
← All questions

What is the definition of a normal subgroup (or invariant subgroup) of a group G?

A normal subgroup (also called an invariant subgroup) is a subgroup H of a group G such that all conjugates of every element in H belong to H. Algebraically, this condition is expressed as gHg−1=HgHg^{-1} = H for any element gg in G.

Conditions

  • H is a subgroup of G
  • The condition must hold for all elements in H
  • The condition must hold for all elements g in G

Reasoning, step by step

  1. Identify the parent group G and the subgroup H.
  2. Take an arbitrary element from H and apply a conjugation operation using an element g from G.
  3. Verify that the resulting conjugate element still belongs to H.
  4. Conclude that if this holds for all elements in H and all g in G, H is a normal subgroup.

Example

The instructor states: 'If all conjugates of elements in H belong to H, then H is called an invariant subgroup of G—or a normal subgroup.' The board displays the formula gHg−1=HgHg^{-1} = H.

Common misconceptions

  • Thinking that only some elements of H need to have their conjugates remain in H; the definition requires this for ALL elements.
  • Confusing a normal subgroup with any arbitrary subgroup; normality is a special property related to conjugation.

Watch the explanation

Connected concepts

Explore next

Related questions

Understand why

↗
Meet the concept

↗
Find a method

↗
Find a method

↗

Answers are generated from source material and independently checked. Consult the original video or creator if something is unclear.