Invariants of centralisers in positive characteristics

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Abstract

Let Q be a simple algebraic group of type A or C over a field of good positive characteristic. Let x∈q=Lie(Q) and consider the centraliser qx={y∈q:[xy]=0}. We show that the invariant algebra S(qx)qx is generated by the p th power subalgebra and the mod p reduction of the characteristic zero invariant algebra. The latter algebra is known to be polynomial [17] and we show that it remains so after reduction. Using a theory of symmetrisation in positive characteristic we prove the analogue of this result in the enveloping algebra, where the p -centre plays the role of the p th power subalgebra. In Zassenhausʼ foundational work [30], the invariant theory and representation theory of modular Lie algebras were shown to be explicitly intertwined. We exploit his theory to give a precise upper bound for the dimensions of simple qx-modules. An application to the geometry of the Zassenhaus variety is given.

When g is of type A and g=k⊕p is a symmetric decomposition of orthogonal type we use similar methods to show that for every nilpotent e∈k the invariant algebra S(pe)ke is generated by the p th power subalgebra and S(pe)Ke which is also shown to be polynomial.
Original languageEnglish
JournalJournal of Algebra
Volume399
Early online date27 Nov 2013
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Feb 2014

Keywords

  • Modular Lie algebras
  • Invariant theory
  • Representation theory

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