On the characterization of the groups \(U_3(q)\) for \(q\) odd. (Q1177262)

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On the characterization of the groups \(U_3(q)\) for \(q\) odd.
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    On the characterization of the groups \(U_3(q)\) for \(q\) odd. (English)
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    26 June 1992
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    One of the important results for the classification of finite simple groups of ``low rank'' is the classification of the three-dimensional unitary groups of odd characteristic as permutation groups by \textit{M. Suzuki} [J. Algebra 2, 1--14 (1965; Zbl 0134.03102)] and \textit{M. O'Nan} [ibid. 22, 254--296 (1972; Zbl 0248.20062)] (for the role in the classification of finite simple groups see \textit{D. Gorenstein}'s book [``Finite simple groups.'' New York etc.: Plenum Press (1982; Zbl 0483.20008) p. 157--160]. The paper under review is a revision of this result. Here the author proves: Let \((G,\Omega)\) be a doubly transitive group, \(| \Omega|=q^3+1\), \(q\) an odd prime power. Assume further that if \(H\) is the stabilizer of a point, \(t\in G-H\) is an involution such that \(D=H\cap H^t\) is cyclic of odd order \((q^2-1)/z\) (\(z\) odd), and \(H=Q\rtimes D\). Assume further that for \(u\in D\) an involution (+) \(C_G(u)\) is isomorphic to a quotient of \(\mathrm{GL}(2,q)\) by a group of order \(z\). Then \(G\simeq \mathrm{PSU}(3,q)\) or \(\mathrm{PGU}(3,q)\). In the papers of Suzuki and O'Nan condition (+) is shown at a fairly early stage, so that the paper under review gives a new approach to these results. It follows and refines the methods of Suzuki, which amounts in the use of generators and relations to prove a uniqueness result for \(G\). For more detailed information and the delicate proof we refer the reader to the paper itself. A substantial reduction in the length of the proof of the Suzuki-O'Nan result is gained.
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    classification of finite simple groups
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    three-dimensional unitary groups
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    doubly transitive group
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    involution
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    generators
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    relations
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    uniqueness
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