Local derivations on $C^*$-algebras are derivations (Q4510035)

A local derivation \(T\) from a \(C^*\)-algebra \(\mathfrak A\) into a Banach bimodule \({\mathfrak X}\) (i.e., a continuous operator \(T:{\mathfrak A}\to{\mathfrak X}\) s.t. for any \(a\in{\mathfrak A}\) there is a derivation \(D_a\) from \({\mathfrak A}\) to \({\mathfrak X}\) with \(D_a(a)=T(a)\)) is actually a derivation. For von Neumann algebras \({\mathfrak A}\) and dual bimodules \({\mathfrak X}\) this result is due to \textit{R. V. Kadison} [J. Algebra 130, No. 2, 494-509 (1990; Zbl 0751.46041)]. The author's observation that continuous Jordan derivations are derivations [see Th.6.3 in Math. Proc. Cambridge 120, No. 3, 455-473 (1996; Zbl 0888.46024)] reduces the general case to that of a \(C^*\)-algebra \({\mathfrak A}(a)\) generated by a self-adjoint \(a\). The core of the remaining proof establishes the result for \({\mathfrak A}=C_0({\mathbb R})\), \({\mathfrak X}=(C_0({\mathbb R})\widehat\otimes C_0({\mathbb R}))^*\), basing on the derived conclusion that local multipliers are multipliers. Examples of local multipliers (derivations) which are not multipliers (derivations) are given for the Banach algebra \(C^1[0,1]\). However, if a \(C^1[0,1]\)-bimodule is symmetrical, local derivations are derivations. Moreover, it is shown that the continuity requirement on \(T\) in the definition of local derivation is redundant since \(T\) is automatically continuous [cf. \textit{J. R. Ringrose}, J. Lond. Math. Soc., II Ser. 5, 432-438 (1972; Zbl 0245.46084)] for derivations.