The Baer condition for group algebras (Q1176652)

A Lie algebra \(L\) is called \(n\)-Engel if \(ad(x)^ n=0\) holds for all \(x\in L\). Settling a longstanding problem, Zel'manov has recently shown that every \(n\)-Engel Lie algebra is nilpotent in characteristic 0, and locally nilpotent in characteristic \(p>0\). An earlier construction of \textit{Yu. P. Razmyslov} [Algebra Logika 10, 33-44 (1971; Zbl 0253.17005)] shows that, in the positive characteristic case, \(L\) need not be nilpotent, or even solvable. The present article exhibits another, simpler example of this kind. In this example, and throughout the article, \(L\) is the underlying Lie algebra of a group algebra over a field of characteristic \(p>0\). To arrive at a positive conclusion, the authors substitute the Engel condition by a stronger condition, called Baer bounded (BB): A Lie algebra is BB if all its one-dimensional subalgebras are subnormal of bounded index. The main results of this article establish that every BB group algebra in characteristic \(p>0\) is Lie-solvable, and even Lie-nilpotent if \(p\neq 2\). The proofs make essential use of \textit{D. S. Passman}'s characterization of group algebras satisfying a polynomial identity [J. Algebra 20, 103-117 (1972; Zbl 0226.16015); Proc. Am. Math. Soc. 31, 87-90 (1972; Zbl 0236.16008)] and of work of \textit{I. S. S. Passi}, \textit{D. S. Passman}, and \textit{S. K. Sehgal} on the Lie structure of group algebras [Can. J. Math. 25, 748-757 (1973; Zbl 0266.16011)].