Abstract Algebra: For a group K satisfying H⊂K⊂G, prove that either K=G or K=H

abstract-algebragroup-theory

Let $G$ be a (not necessarily finite) group and let $H$ be a subgroup of G with exactly two distinct cosets. For a group $K$ satisfying $H \subset K \subset G$, prove that either $K=G$ or $K=H$.

So far, I have split the proof into two cases.

i) When G is finite and ii) when G is infinite.

For i) I said that since$ |G:H| =2, H=|G|/2$.

Also, $2= |G:H| = |G|/|H| = |G|/|K| x |K|/|H| = (|G:H|) x (|K:H|)$.

I then go to consider if $|G:K|=1$ or $|K:H|=1$.

For ii) I don't know how to proceed as there are no theorems that work with an infinite group. I considered splitting ii) into further cases since an infinite group can have an infinite subgroup of finite order, a finite subgroup of infinite order, and an infinite subgroup of infinite order. However, I am struggling with this portion.
Any help is appreciated in advance!

Best Answer

Even if $G$ is infinite, $|G/H|=2$. If $K$ is an intermediate subgroup, we have $2=|G/H|=|G/K||K/H|$. Since $2$ is prime, $|G/K|$ is either $1$ or $2$. If it is $1$, then $G=K$. If it's $2$, then $|K/H|=1$, so $K=H$.