Finite groups with an irreducible character of large degree. (Q5965204)

Let \(G\) be a finite group and \(d\) the degree of a complex irreducible character of \(G\), then write \(|G|=d(d+e)\), where \(e\) is a nonnegative integer. Note that indeed \(e\) is always greater than zero. In this paper it has been shown that \(|G|\leq e^4-e^3\), whenever \(e\geq 2\). The bound is the best possible as the authors do establish. There is a long history regarding the estimations relating \(|G|\) and powers/differences of \(e\). We mention the following classifications and obtained results. 1) \(e=1\): \textit{Y. Berkovich} [Isr. J. Math. 110, 325-332 (1999; Zbl 0958.20008)] [\(\Rightarrow G\) cyclic or \(G\) is 2-transitive Frobenius]; 2) \(e= 2\): \textit{N. Snyder} [Proc. Am. Math. Soc. 136, No. 6, 1893-903 (2008; Zbl 1145.20005)] [\(\Rightarrow|G|\leq 8]\); 3) \(e= 3\): \textit{N. Snyder} [loc. cit.], \([\Rightarrow|G|\leq 54]\). In the following list we assume always \(e\geq 2\). 4) \textit{N. Snyder} [loc. cit.], \([\Rightarrow|G|\leq((2e)!)^2\)]; 5) \textit{I. M. Isaacs} [J. Algebra 348, No. 1, 264-275 (2011; Zbl 1242.20011)] [\(\Rightarrow|G|\leq Be^6\) for some big enough constant \(B\)] (relying indirectly on the classification of the finite simple groups (CFSG)); 6) \textit{C. Durfee} and \textit{S. Jensen} [J. Algebra 338, No. 1, 197-206 (2011; Zbl 1236.20005)] [\(\Rightarrow|G|\leq e^6-e^4\)] (not depending on CFSG); 7) \textit{M. L. Lewis} [J. Group Theory 17, No. 6, 1081-1116 (2014; Zbl 1310.20010)] [\(\Rightarrow|G|\leq e^4+ e^3\)]; 8) \textit{I. M. Isaacs} [loc. cit.] [there are \(G\) attaining the bound \(e^4-e^3\)]; 9) assume that \(G\) has a nontrivial Abelian normal subgroup: \textit{M. L. Lewis} [loc. cit.] [\(\Rightarrow|G|\leq e^4-e^3\)]; And finally: [this paper: \(\Rightarrow|G|\leq e^4-e^3\), unconditonally but relying on CFSG]. Herewith the search for the best possible bound came to an end. Let me add, that I regard the paper as very good, detailed and informative. Inside one finds sections like extendible characters of simple groups, simple groups, \(\text{PSL}_2(q)\) (rather than other simple groups), groups with \(e^4-e^3=|G|\). Perhaps that somehow in the future, the establishing of the bound \(|G|\leq e^4-e^3\) can be disposed of the depending on CFSG; who knows?