Quaternary group ring codes: ranks, kernels and self-dual codes (Q2176296)

For a finite group \(G\), \(G\)-codes over the ring \(\mathbb{Z}_4\) are studied. They are invariant under the action of the group \(G\). These codes are considered as ideals in a group ring. The rank and kernel of these codes are studied. In particular, it is shown that the quaternary kernel and rank of a \(G\)-code is itself a \(G\)-code. The cases of the dihedral group and the dicyclic group are investigated in detail. Finally, quaternary self-dual dihedral and dicyclic codes are studied. Some examples are given.