The Zelmanov approach to Jordan homomorphisms of associative algebras (Q1121974)

In 1967, W. Martindale proved that Jordan homomorphisms and derivations could be lifted to associative homomorphisms and derivations when certain conditions on idempotents hold. E. I. Zel'manov has replaced Martindale's conditions on idempotents with an intrinsic condition involving polynomials. In this article, the author eliminates Zel'manov's assumptions of primeness and linearity. Specifically, let J be a unital special Jordan algebra generated as an ideal by the images of the Jordan polynomial \(Z_{48}\) of degree 48 identified by Zel'manov. Let A be an associative algebra with involution * such that J is contained in a Jordan algebra of symmetric elements of A and generates A. Then any Jordan homomorphism from J to the symmetric elements of an associative algebra B with involution * extends uniquely to a *-homomorphism from A to B. Corresponding results are proved for lifting homomorphisms without reference to involutions and for lifting derivations.