Identities for Lie algebras of pro-\(p\) groups (Q1194305): Difference between revisions

In this note we show that a group law on cosets of a subgroup of finite index in a group implies an identity on a Lie algebra associated to the group. We also derive some consequences concerning presentations of pro-\(p\) groups and concerning profinite Engel groups. The following theorems are proved: Theorem. If \(G\) is a group which has a subgroup \(H\) of finite index and elements \(a_1, \dots, a_n\) such that a law \(w=1\) is satisfied on the cosets \(a_1 H, \dots, a_n H\), then for each prime number \(p\) the Lie algebra \(L_p (G)\) satisfies an identity. Theorem: Let \(G\) be a finitely presented pro-\(p\) group and suppose that the free discrete group of rank 2 cannot be embedded in \(G\). Then the following assertions hold: (a) If \(G\) has a presentation with \(n\) generators and \(r\) relations, and if \(G\) is not pro-cyclic, then \(r\geq n+ {1\over 4} d^2- d\), where \(d= d(G)\). (b) There is a constant \(k>0\) such that \(d(H)\leq k|G:H |^{1/2}\) for all open subgroups \(H\) of \(G\). (c) If \(N\) is any (closed) normal subgroup of \(G\) such that \(G/N\) is pro-cyclic, then \(N\) is finitely generated. Theorem. Every profinite Engel group is locally nilpotent. -- An immediate consequence of this last theorem is that a profinite group is locally nilpotent if and only if each of its 2-generator subgroups is nilpotent.