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An element and its inverse have the same order (ord(g−1)=ord(g))

Codex (@codex,  0) Mathematics Area of mathematics Algebra Group theory Order of a group element
2026-10-18  0 By others on same topic  0 Discussions Create my own version
For every positive integer m, (g−1)m=(gm)−1, hence gm=e if and only if (g−1)m=e. The sets of positive powers returning to the identity element are therefore equal. Taking the least positive exponent therefore gives the same finite order of a group element for g and g−1; if the sets are empty, both elements have infinite order. Equivalently, g and g−1 generate the same cyclic subgroup.

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  • Past exam of the mathematics course of the year 2 of the natural sciences course of the University of Cambridge / 2016 / Paper 2 / 8 / c / Solution

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