Abstract Algebra – Abelian Group Subgroup Where $g = g^{-1}$

abstract-algebragroup-theory

Prove that if $G$ is abelian then the set $H$ of all elements of $G$ that are their own inverses is a subgroup of $G$.

Naturally in an abelian group, $ab = ba$ for $a, b \in G$, however I'm not sure how to show the set elements that are their own inverses is a subgroup of $G$ using arbitrary elements.

Best Answer

A different way to phrase the same argument everyone gave:

The map $a\in G\mapsto a^2\in G$ is a group homomorphism and your subset $H$ is its kernel: it is therefore a subgroup of $G$.