Solution

ID: past-exam-of-the-algebra-and-analysis-i-for-mathematics-and-philosophy-course-of-the-university-of-oxford/2013/algebra/3/b/solution

For the zero ideal, choose . Otherwise choose a nonzero for which the Euclidean function is minimal; the well-ordering principle guarantees such a choice. For any , perform Euclidean division:
Because is an ideal, . A nonzero remainder would contradict the minimal choice of , so and . Thus . Conversely, implies , proving
Every ideal is therefore a principal ideal; in particular, a Euclidean domain is a principal ideal domain.

New to topics? Read the docs here!