Is $\mathbb{Z}_p$ the only discrete valuation ring of $\mathbb{Q}_p$

algebraic-number-theorylocal-fieldp-adic-number-theoryvaluation-theory

We can construct $\mathbb{Q}_p$ purely algebraically by defining it as the field of fractions of $\varprojlim \mathbb{Z} / p \mathbb{Z}$. Then we can define the $p$-adic valuation on $\mathbb{Q}_p$ and recover $\mathbb{Z}_p$ as the ring of integers: $\mathbb{Z}_p = \{x \in \mathbb{Q}_p : v(x) \geq 0\}$. I'm curious whether we can recognize the ring of integers in $\mathbb{Q}_p$ without reference to the valuation $v_p$, or to the topology induced by this valuation.

I suspect that $\mathbb{Z}_p$ is either

  1. The only discrete valuation ring contained in $\mathbb{Q}_p$, or
  2. The unique maximal discrete valuation ring contained in $\mathbb{Q}_p$.

Are either of these correct?

Edit: I've found this post, and I think the answer there is showing that every non-trivial discrete valuation on $\mathbb{Q}_p$ must be equivalent to the $p$-adic valuation, but I'm struggling with the details in the proof.

Best Answer

No, neither statement is true. $\mathbb{Q}_p$ contains $\mathbb{Q}$, so it contains the localizations $\mathbb{Z}_{(q)} = \mathbb{Q} \cap \mathbb{Z}_q$ (given by the rational numbers whose denominator is not divisible by $q$) for every prime $q$, not necessarily equal to $p$. For $q \neq p$ these subrings are not contained in $\mathbb{Z}_p$ because $p$ is invertible in them.

Related Question