The congruence subgroup problem. An elementary approach aimed at applications. (Q1397075)

In this book, beginning with a nice saying of Gauß, the author considers one of the most important problems in group theory, namely ``the congruence subgroup problem'' for several cases including solvable groups, \(\text{SL}(2,O_S)\) and the Steinberg groups. In the first chapter, the preliminary notions from number theory and group theory are recalled. Among these, the definition of the congruence subgroups and the reasons for studying them are given. Congruence and principal congruence subgroups had obtained a well-deserved attention and many results are obtained on them. For example, \textit{K. Wohlfahrt} [Ill. J. Math. 8, 529-535 (1964; Zbl 0135.29101)], has shown that the two definitions of the principal congruence subgroups for the modular group give the same result. \textit{I. N. Cangül} and \textit{D. Singerman} have shown that these may be different for the Hecke groups which are just some generalisations of the modular group [Math. Proc. Camb. Philos. Soc. 123, No. 1, 59-74 (1998; Zbl 0893.20036)]. In this book the congruence subgroup problem is considered and its applications are given. In the final chapter, this problem is discussed in general algebraic groups. This complete book can be read by any mathematician at any level, interested in CSP, but some knowledge of group theory and algebraic topology would be helpful.