On a conjecture of V. V. Shchigolev. (Q555572)

Let \(k\) be an infinite field of positive characteristic \(p\geq 2\), and denote by \(V\) the T-space in the free associative \(k\)-algebra \(k(X)\) that is generated by the polynomials \(G=\{x_1^p,x_1^px_2^p,\dots\}\). Recall that a T-space in \(k(X)\) is a vector subspace that is closed under all algebra endomorphisms of \(k(X)\). The T-space \(V\) is rather important in PI theory. It was proved by Shchigolev that \(V\) is finitely generated as a T-space whenever \(p>2\) while if \(p=2\) a result due to Grishin asserts that \(V\) does not admit a finite basis as a T-space. \textit{A. V. Grishin} and \textit{V. V. Shchigolev} [in J. Math. Sci., New York 134, No. 1, 1799-1878 (2006); translation from Sovrem. Mat. Prilozh. 18, 26-97 (2004; Zbl 1100.16018)] asked whether every subset of \(G\) generates a finitely based T-space if \(p>2\). The main result of the paper under review consists in answering in the affirmative the above question. The authors prove that every (infinite) subset of \(G\) generates a finitely based T-space. Moreover, if the two shortest monomials in the given subset are of lengths \(i\) and \(j\), \(i<j\), the authors prove that there exists a generating set with at most \(j-i+1\) elements.