[Math] Image of a maximal ideal

abstract-algebraring-theory

Let $f:R\rightarrow S$ be a surjective homomorphism of commutative rings with unity. I want to prove that if $M$ is a maximal ideal then $f(M)$ is either $S$ or it is a maximal ideal of $S$. I get the feeling I should somehow use the correspondence theorem, but I just can't see how to exactly use it. Thank you in advance.

I also was wondering if the same statement holds for prime ideals?

Best Answer

If $f(M) \subseteq I \subseteq S$ is an ideal, then $M \subseteq f^{-1}(I) \subseteq R$. Since $M$ is maximal, we get $M=f^{-1}(I)$ or $f^{-1}(I)=R$, i.e. $f(M)=I$ or $I=S$. $\mathrm{QED}$