Division composition algebras through their derivation algebras (Q2509243)

The derivation algebra of an algebra measures, to some extent, its symmetry. Finite dimensional real division algebras were studied by means of their derivation algebras by \textit{G.~Benkart} and \textit{J.~M.~Osborn} [Am. J. Math. 103, 1135--1150 (1981; Zbl 0474.17002) and Pac. J. Math. 96, 265--300 (1981; Zbl 0474.17003)]. Many interesting examples of real division algebras are composition algebras (that is, they are endowed with a nondegenerate multiplicative quadratic form). The paper under review is devoted to the investigation of finite dimensional division composition algebras over arbitrary fields of characteristic \(\neq 2,3\) through their Lie algebras of derivations. It turns out that the results of Benkart and Osborn, both on the possibilities for this Lie algebra and on the structure of the algebras as modules for their derivation algebras, extend quite naturally to this setting. Five families of division composition algebras are defined, built by means of either Hurwitz or Okubo algebras, and it is proven that any division composition algebra with nonabelian Lie algebra of derivations belongs to one of these families. Examples of division composition algebras, whose derivation algebra is nonabelian are given too, covering all the different possibilities. As a byproduct, new examples of real division algebras are provided, thus completing and refining some previous work on the subject.