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Cartan Subalgebras and Root Space Decompositions

1 · Prerequisites

2 · Summary

This page develops Cartan subalgebras and root-space decompositions for finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebras. It begins with the abstract Jordan decomposition inside the adjoint representation, then introduces normalizers, Cartan subalgebras, toral and maximal toral subalgebras, and regular elements, and proves that the centralizer of a regular semisimple element is Cartan, that Cartan subalgebras exist and are exactly the maximal toral subalgebras, and that any two Cartan subalgebras are conjugate by an inner automorphism in the connected adjoint group.

The second half fixes a Cartan subalgebra, proves the root-space decomposition and the Killing-form orthogonality of root spaces, constructs the root sl2 triples and coroots, and derives the integrality of Cartan integers, the root-string property, one-dimensionality and reducedness of the root spaces, and reflection invariance of the root set, concluding that the roots form a reduced crystallographic root system. The final items record the dimension formula, the centre as the common kernel of the roots, the centralizer dimension from vanishing roots, and the density of the regular locus. Every theorem that uses the additive Jordan–Chevalley decomposition declares the Axiom of Choice and identifies that use. The root-space decomposition, Killing-form, root-triple, coroot, root-string, reflection, regular-locus, and classification chain likewise states its Choice hypothesis explicitly. Coordinate computations that do not invoke those general interfaces remain choice-free; examples that identify their calculations with the Choice-scoped chain state the same hypothesis.

3 · Logical flowchart

4 · Definitions, theorems and proofs

RemarkRemark: Literature-sourcedProof: Not applicablejudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

The additive Jordan–Chevalley supplier

Remark

The operator theorem used by the Jordan-decomposition items on this page is Over a perfect field, every endomorphism has a unique commuting semisimple-plus-nilpotent decomposition, polynomial in the endomorphism: over a perfect field every endomorphism T of a finite-dimensional vector space has a unique commuting semisimple-plus-nilpotent decomposition T=Ts+Tn, and both parts are polynomials in T. Its published contract assumes the Axiom of Choice (The Axiom of Choice); every use of it below inherits that assumption, and the items that use it declare the dependence explicitly.

On this page the theorem is applied only in the following special case: the field is C, which is perfect, and T=ad⁡x for an element x of a finite-dimensional complex Lie algebra g. The theorem then produces ad⁡x=S+N with S semisimple, N nilpotent, SN=NS, and both S and N polynomials in ad⁡x. No further operator theory is imported: the passage from these operator parts to elements of g is the content of Jordan–Chevalley parts agree under the adjoint representation and Jordan decomposition lies inside a complex semisimple Lie algebra.

The cited theorem is published with the Axiom of Choice in its statement but without The Axiom of Choice in its published dependency list. That metadata defect is recorded for the canonical published-defect ledger; it does not block this page, because the assumption is declared here and propagated through every consumer.

RemarkRemark: Literature-sourcedProof: Not applicablejudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Jordan–Chevalley parts under the adjoint representation

Remark

The compatibility between the abstract Jordan decomposition of Abstract Jordan decomposition and the operator decomposition supplied by The additive Jordan–Chevalley supplier is proof-bearing. It is therefore not imported as a convention or as part of a definition: it is proved in Jordan–Chevalley parts agree under the adjoint representation, which precedes every consumer of the compatibility on this page, and the internal existence and uniqueness theorem Jordan decomposition lies inside a complex semisimple Lie algebra then rests on it rather than on an appeal to the operator theorem alone.

DefinitionDefinition: Literature-sourcedProof: Not applicablejudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Abstract Jordan decomposition

Definition

Let g be a finite-dimensional Lie algebra over a field (Lie algebras over a field) and let x∈g. An abstract Jordan decomposition of x is a pair of elements xs,xn∈g with

x=xs+xn,[xs,xn]=0,

such that the endomorphism ad⁡xs of g is semisimple and ad⁡xn is nilpotent, in the sense of Semisimple endomorphisms as endomorphisms diagonalisable over an algebraic closure, and nilpotent endomorphisms. One then calls xs a semisimple part and xn a nilpotent part of x.

Existence and uniqueness of such a decomposition are not part of the definition. For a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra they are proved below in Jordan decomposition lies inside a complex semisimple Lie algebra; for an arbitrary Lie algebra neither is asserted here, and a pair displaying the two proposed parts is not claimed to exist.

LemmaStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedjudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Jordan–Chevalley parts agree under the adjoint representation

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let g be a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra and let x∈g.

(i) If x=xs+xn is an abstract Jordan decomposition of x, then the additive Jordan–Chevalley parts of ad⁡x are ad⁡xs and ad⁡xn.

(ii) Conversely, if ad⁡x=S+N is the additive Jordan–Chevalley decomposition of ad⁡x, then there are unique ys,yn∈g with S=ad⁡ys and N=ad⁡yn. They satisfy ys+yn=x, [ys,yn]=0, with ad⁡ys semisimple and ad⁡yn nilpotent; consequently x=ys+yn is an abstract Jordan decomposition of x, and it is the only one.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g, and an element x∈g.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is the principle of The Axiom of Choice; it is used in this lemma only through [L1].

[L1]

Every endomorphism T of a finite-dimensional vector space over a perfect field has a unique commuting semisimple-plus-nilpotent decomposition T=Ts+Tn, and Ts,Tn are polynomials in T (Over a perfect field, every endomorphism has a unique commuting semisimple-plus-nilpotent decomposition, polynomial in the endomorphism).

[L2]

Every derivation of a finite-dimensional semisimple Lie algebra in characteristic zero is inner, and the representing element is unique (Derivations of semisimple Lie algebras are inner).

[L3]

A finite-dimensional semisimple complex Lie algebra is centerless and perfect, so ad⁡ is injective (Semisimple Lie algebras are centerless and perfect).

[L4]

An abstract Jordan decomposition of x is a decomposition x=xs+xn with [xs,xn]=0, ad⁡xs semisimple and ad⁡xn nilpotent (Abstract Jordan decomposition).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1A1L1L4algebra

Suppose x=xs+xn is an abstract Jordan decomposition. Then ad⁡x=ad⁡xs+ad⁡xn by linearity of ad⁡, the two summands commute because [ad⁡xs,ad⁡xn]=ad⁡[xs,xn]=0, and by [L4] the first is semisimple while the second is nilpotent. The uniqueness assertion of [L1] therefore identifies them with the additive Jordan–Chevalley parts of ad⁡x. This proves (i).

1.2A1L1algebra

Now let ad⁡x=S+N be the additive Jordan–Chevalley decomposition of the derivation T=ad⁡x; by [L1] there are polynomials p,q∈C[t] with S=p(T) and N=q(T). We show that S is a derivation and that S acts on the generalized eigenspace of T for λ as multiplication by λ. The generalized eigenspaces gλ={y:(T−λ)ky=0 for some k} satisfy g=⨁λgλ and [gλ,gμ]⊆gλ+μ: the second claim follows from the binomial expansion (T−λ−μ)n[y,z]=∑i+j=n(ni)[(T−λ)iy,(T−μ)jz]. Each gλ is invariant under T, hence under p(T)=S. On gλ the operator T equals λ⋅1 plus a commuting nilpotent operator, so p(T)=p(λ)⋅1+(nilpotent) there; since S is semisimple and restricts semisimply to the invariant subspace gλ, this forces S∣gλ=p(λ)⋅1. On the other hand S−λ⋅1=(T−λ⋅1)−N is a difference of two commuting nilpotent operators on gλ, hence nilpotent; comparing with the scalar operator (p(λ)−λ)⋅1 gives p(λ)=λ. Therefore S∣gλ=λ⋅1, and for y∈gλ, z∈gμ one has S[y,z]=(λ+μ)[y,z]=[λy,z]+[y,μz]=[Sy,z]+[y,Sz] because [y,z]∈gλ+μ. Thus S is a derivation; T is a derivation by the Jacobi identity, so N=T−S is a derivation too.

2.1L2L3L4step 1.2

By [L2] there are unique ys,yn∈g with S=ad⁡ys and N=ad⁡yn. Then ad⁡ys+yn=S+N=ad⁡x, so ys+yn=x by injectivity of ad⁡ [L3]; also ad⁡[ys,yn]=[S,N]=0, so [ys,yn]=0 by [L3]; and ad⁡ys=S is semisimple while ad⁡yn=N is nilpotent. Hence x=ys+yn is an abstract Jordan decomposition by [L4].

3.1A1L1L3step 1.13.1∎

If x=u+v is any abstract Jordan decomposition, then ad⁡u,ad⁡v is a commuting semisimple-plus-nilpotent decomposition of ad⁡x by step 1.1's computation, so uniqueness in [L1] gives ad⁡u=S=ad⁡ys and ad⁡v=N=ad⁡yn; injectivity of ad⁡ [L3] gives u=ys and v=yn. Hence the decomposition of (ii) is unique. If g=0 then x=0=ys=yn and every assertion holds with the zero endomorphism, which is both semisimple and nilpotent; no nonempty choice is made anywhere in this argument, the Axiom of Choice being used only through the appeal to [L1].

TheoremStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Jordan decomposition lies inside a complex semisimple Lie algebra

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Every element x of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g has a unique abstract Jordan decomposition x=xs+xn, and ad⁡xs, ad⁡xn are the additive Jordan–Chevalley parts of ad⁡x.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g, and an element x∈g.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it is inherited through [L1] and [L2], with [L2] itself using the operator theorem [L1].

[L1]

Under the Axiom of Choice, every endomorphism of a finite-dimensional vector space over a perfect field has a unique additive Jordan–Chevalley decomposition into commuting semisimple and nilpotent parts (Over a perfect field, every endomorphism has a unique commuting semisimple-plus-nilpotent decomposition, polynomial in the endomorphism).

[L2]

Under the Axiom of Choice, if ad⁡x=S+N is that additive decomposition, there are unique ys,yn∈g with S=ad⁡ys and N=ad⁡yn; they give the unique abstract Jordan decomposition of x. Conversely, any abstract Jordan decomposition has adjoints S,N (Jordan–Chevalley parts agree under the adjoint representation).

[L3]

An abstract Jordan decomposition is a decomposition x=xs+xn with commuting parts whose adjoints are semisimple, respectively nilpotent (Abstract Jordan decomposition).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1A1L1L2L3

The endomorphism ad⁡x of the finite-dimensional complex vector space g has an additive Jordan–Chevalley decomposition by [L1]. Applying clause (ii) of [L2] to it produces elements ys,yn∈g such that x=ys+yn, [ys,yn]=0, ad⁡ys is semisimple and ad⁡yn is nilpotent, and such that ad⁡ys, ad⁡yn are the additive parts of ad⁡x. By [L3] this is an abstract Jordan decomposition of x.

2.1A1L1L2L3step 1.1∎

Let x=u+v be any abstract Jordan decomposition. Clause (i) of [L2] identifies ad⁡u and ad⁡v with the additive Jordan–Chevalley parts of ad⁡x, which are the parts ad⁡ys and ad⁡yn produced in step 1.1; uniqueness of the abstract decomposition in [L2] then gives u=ys and v=yn. For g=0 the only element is 0 and the decomposition 0=0+0 satisfies the definition vacuously; the Axiom of Choice enters only through [L1] and [L2].

DefinitionDefinition: Literature-sourcedProof: Not applicablejudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Normalizer of a Lie subalgebra

Definition

Let g be a Lie algebra and let h⊆g be a Lie subalgebra (Lie subalgebras, ideals, and center). The normalizer of h in g is

Ng(h)={x∈g:[x,h]⊆h}.

It is a Lie subalgebra containing h: for x,y∈Ng(h) and h∈h, Jacobi gives [ [x,y],h ]=[x,[y,h]]−[y,[x,h]], a difference of two elements of h; and h⊆Ng(h) because h is a subalgebra. Moreover h is an ideal of Ng(h) by the defining condition.

DefinitionDefinition: Literature-sourcedProof: Not applicablejudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Cartan subalgebra

Definition

Let g be a finite-dimensional Lie algebra over a field. A Cartan subalgebra of g is a Lie subalgebra h⊆g which is nilpotent (Lower central series and nilpotent Lie algebras) and satisfies Ng(h)=h for the normalizer of Normalizer of a Lie subalgebra.

This definition is stated for arbitrary finite-dimensional Lie algebras and carries no semisimplicity hypothesis. In particular the zero subalgebra of the zero Lie algebra is a Cartan subalgebra, since the zero algebra is nilpotent and its normalizer is again zero; in a nonzero Lie algebra the zero subalgebra is not a Cartan subalgebra, because its normalizer is the whole algebra.

DefinitionDefinition: Literature-sourcedProof: Not applicablejudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Toral and maximal toral subalgebras

Definition

Let g be a finite-dimensional complex Lie algebra. A Lie subalgebra t⊆g (Lie subalgebras, ideals, and center) is toral if it is abelian and ad⁡x is a semisimple endomorphism of g for every x∈t, semisimplicity being understood in the sense of Semisimple endomorphisms as endomorphisms diagonalisable over an algebraic closure, and nilpotent endomorphisms (Derivations of Lie algebras supplies the notation ad⁡x(y)=[x,y]). Because t is abelian, ad⁡x∣t is the zero endomorphism of t and is therefore semisimple automatically: the requirement must be placed on g itself, and requiring only that ad⁡x∣t be semisimple would merely repeat abelianness.

The coordinates on g are irrelevant to this notion: the choice of an algebraic closure in Semisimple endomorphisms as endomorphisms diagonalisable over an algebraic closure, and nilpotent endomorphisms makes semisimplicity of an endomorphism a basis-free property, and restricting a semisimple endomorphism to an invariant subspace is again semisimple. A toral subalgebra is maximal toral if it is maximal by inclusion among toral subalgebras of g.

DefinitionDefinition: Literature-sourcedProof: Not applicablejudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Regular element and rank

Definition

Let g be a finite-dimensional complex Lie algebra (Lie algebras over a field), and for x∈g write gx=ker⁡(ad⁡x)={y∈g:[x,y]=0} using ad⁡x(y)=[x,y] from Derivations of Lie algebras. The numbers dim⁡gx are natural numbers bounded by dim⁡g, so the set of values attained has a least element; it is denoted rank⁡(g).

An element x∈g is regular if dim⁡gx=rank⁡(g), and regular semisimple if in addition ad⁡x is a semisimple endomorphism in the sense of Semisimple endomorphisms as endomorphisms diagonalisable over an algebraic closure, and nilpotent endomorphisms. Thus every regular semisimple element is regular and has semisimple adjoint operator, and for g=0 the single element 0 is regular semisimple with rank⁡(0)=0.

TheoremStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedjudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Centralizer of a regular semisimple element is Cartan

Statement

Let g be a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra and let x∈g be regular semisimple (Regular element and rank). Then gx=ker⁡(ad⁡x) is a Cartan subalgebra of g in the sense of Cartan subalgebra.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: Such a Lie algebra g and a regular semisimple element x∈g; write m=dim⁡gx=rank⁡(g).

[L1]

Regularity of x means dim⁡ker⁡(ad⁡y)≥m for every y∈g (Regular element and rank).

[L2]

Semisimplicity of x means that ad⁡x is semisimple, and then g is the direct sum of its eigenspaces and g=ker⁡(ad⁡x)⊕im⁡(ad⁡x) (Semisimple endomorphisms as endomorphisms diagonalisable over an algebraic closure, and nilpotent endomorphisms). Also ad⁡[u,v]=[ad⁡u,ad⁡v] (Derivations form a Lie algebra and inner derivations an ideal).

[L3]

A Cartan subalgebra is a nilpotent subalgebra equal to its normalizer (Cartan subalgebra, Normalizer of a Lie subalgebra).

[L4]

A finite-dimensional Lie algebra on which every adjoint operator is nilpotent is nilpotent (Engel's theorem).

[L5]

ad⁡x(y)=[x,y] (Derivations of Lie algebras).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1L2L5algebra

gx is a Lie subalgebra: for y,z∈gx, Jacobi and [L5] give [x,[y,z]]=[ [x,y],z ]+[y,[x,z]]=0.

1.2L2L5algebra

gx equals its normalizer. Let y∈Ng(gx). Since x∈gx, we have [y,x]∈gx, so [x,[y,x]]=0. Decompose y=∑λyλ in the eigenspaces of the semisimple operator ad⁡x [L2]. Then [x,y]=∑λλyλ and [x,[y,x]]=−∑λλ2yλ=0; the summands lie in distinct eigenspaces, so λ2yλ=0, and since the field is C we get yλ=0 for λ≠0. Hence y=y0∈gx, so Ng(gx)=gx.

1.3L1L2L5algebra

Every z∈gx acts by zero on gx. Since [x,z]=0, the operators A=ad⁡x and B=ad⁡z commute [L2], and A is semisimple [L2], so g=⨁λVλ with Vλ=ker⁡(A−λ) and each Vλ is B-invariant. For t∈C put Mt=A+tB=ad⁡x+tz. For t≠0 an element v=∑λvλ with vλ∈Vλ is killed by Mt exactly when λvλ+tBvλ=0 for every λ, so dim⁡ker⁡Mt=dim⁡ker⁡(B∣V0)+∑λ≠0mλ(t), where mλ(t)=dim⁡ker⁡(B+λt)∣Vλ is the multiplicity of the eigenvalue −λt of the endomorphism B∣Vλ and therefore vanishes for all but finitely many t. Choosing t outside this finite exceptional set and using [L1] at the element x+tz gives dim⁡ker⁡(B∣V0)=dim⁡ker⁡Mt≥m=dim⁡V0, hence ker⁡(B∣V0)=V0 and B∣V0=0; by definition V0=gx.

2.1L3L4step 1.2step 1.3∎

Since z∈gx was arbitrary, step 1.3 shows that ad⁡z∣gx=0 for every z∈gx, so gx is abelian and in particular nilpotent; alternatively, every adjoint operator of gx is nilpotent on gx and [L4] applies. By step 1.2, gx equals its normalizer, so [L3] makes gx a Cartan subalgebra. When g=0 we have x=0, gx=0, and the zero subalgebra is a Cartan subalgebra of the zero algebra; no nonempty choice occurs.

TheoremStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Existence of Cartan subalgebras

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Every finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra has a Cartan subalgebra (Cartan subalgebra). Indeed every maximal toral subalgebra (Toral and maximal toral subalgebras) of such an algebra is a Cartan subalgebra.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice and a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with Killing form B.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it is inherited through [L1] and [L9].

[L1]

Under AC, every element x∈g has an abstract Jordan decomposition x=xs+xn, and ad⁡xs, ad⁡xn are the additive Jordan–Chevalley parts of ad⁡x (Jordan decomposition lies inside a complex semisimple Lie algebra).

[L2]

A finite-dimensional Lie algebra is nilpotent if and only if all its adjoint operators are nilpotent (Engel's theorem), and a nilpotent Lie algebra is solvable (Nilpotent Lie algebras are solvable).

[L3]

Over an algebraically closed field of characteristic zero, a finite-dimensional solvable Lie algebra has a common eigenvector in every nonzero finite-dimensional module, by Lie's theorem (Lie's theorem).

[L4]

A pairwise commuting family of diagonalisable endomorphisms of a finite-dimensional space is simultaneously diagonalisable, so a sum of commuting semisimple endomorphisms is semisimple (A family of diagonalisable endomorphisms of a finite-dimensional space is simultaneously diagonalisable if and only if its members commute pairwise).

[L5]

The Killing form B(x,y)=tr⁡(ad⁡xad⁡y) is symmetric and invariant: B([z,x],y)+B(x,[z,y])=0; it is nondegenerate because g is semisimple (Killing form, Trace forms are symmetric and invariant, Cartan's semisimplicity criterion).

[L6]

The algebra is centerless and perfect: Z(g)=0 and [g,g]=g (Semisimple Lie algebras are centerless and perfect); semisimplicity means vanishing of the radical (Simple, semisimple, and reductive Lie algebras); and ad⁡[u,v]=[ad⁡u,ad⁡v] (Derivations form a Lie algebra and inner derivations an ideal).

[L7]

A toral subalgebra is an abelian subalgebra all of whose adjoint operators are semisimple, and it is maximal toral when maximal by inclusion (Toral and maximal toral subalgebras); a Cartan subalgebra is nilpotent and equal to its normalizer (Cartan subalgebra, Normalizer of a Lie subalgebra).

[L8]

ad⁡x(y)=[x,y] (Derivations of Lie algebras).

[L9]

Under AC, the additive Jordan–Chevalley parts of an endomorphism of a finite-dimensional vector space over a perfect field are polynomials in that endomorphism (Over a perfect field, every endomorphism has a unique commuting semisimple-plus-nilpotent decomposition, polynomial in the endomorphism).

Proof

technique · maximal toral subalgebra and Killing-form counting
1.1L1L2L6algebra

If g=0, the zero subalgebra is nilpotent and equals its own normalizer, hence is a Cartan subalgebra. Assume now g≠0. There is a nonzero semisimple element: if every element of g had nilpotent adjoint operator, then [L2] would make g nilpotent, hence solvable, so its radical would be g≠0, contradicting semisimplicity [L6]. Choose an element x whose adjoint operator is not nilpotent and let x=xs+xn be its decomposition from [L1]; if xs=0 then ad⁡x=ad⁡xn is nilpotent, contrary to the choice of x, so xs≠0 is semisimple.

2.1L4L7L8step 1.1algebra

A toral subalgebra of maximal dimension exists and is maximal by inclusion. Let t be any maximal toral subalgebra; it is nonzero since the zero subalgebra is contained in Cxs from step 1.1. By [L7] the subalgebra t is abelian, so the operators ad⁡h, h∈t, are pairwise commuting, and each is semisimple by [L7]; hence by [L4] and [L8] they are simultaneously diagonalisable and g=⨁λ∈t∗gλ,gλ={x∈g:[h,x]=λ(h)x for all h∈t}. Put l=g0=Cg(t).

3.1A1L1L4L6L7L8L9step 2.1algebra

For x∈l the Jordan parts lie in l: by [L1] and [L9] there is a polynomial p with ad⁡xs=p(ad⁡x), and [ad⁡x,ad⁡h]=ad⁡[x,h]=0 for h∈t [L6, L8], so [ad⁡xs,ad⁡h]=0 and therefore ad⁡[xs,h]=0, that is, [xs,h]∈Z(g)=0; thus xs∈l, and xn=x−xs∈l as well. Moreover t+Cxs is toral: it is a subalgebra because [xs,t]=0, it is abelian, and each of its elements has semisimple adjoint operator by [L4] since ad⁡xs and the commuting operators ad⁡h are semisimple. By the maximality of t we get xs∈t.

3.2L5L8step 2.1algebra

Invariance of B gives (λ(h)+μ(h))B(y,z)=B([h,y],z)+B(y,[h,z])=0 for y∈gλ, z∈gμ and h∈t; if λ+μ≠0 some h has (λ+μ)(h)≠0, so B(gλ,gμ)=0.

4.1L1L2step 3.1algebra

For x∈l we have ad⁡l(x)=ad⁡l(xn), because xs∈t centralises l; by [L1] the operator ad⁡xn is nilpotent, so every adjoint operator of l is nilpotent on l and [L2] makes l nilpotent.

5.1L2L3L5step 4.1algebra

The algebra l is abelian. It is nilpotent by step 4.1, hence solvable, so [L3] supplies a common eigenvector in the nonzero module g. Its line is invariant. Apply [L3] to the quotient by that line and then to successive nonzero quotients; the dimension drops at each step, and lifting the resulting invariant flag gives a basis of g in which all ad⁡x, x∈l, are upper triangular. For x∈[l,l] the operator ad⁡x is a sum of commutators of upper triangular operators, hence strictly upper triangular, hence nilpotent; consequently B(x,y)=tr⁡(ad⁡xad⁡y)=0 for every y∈l, since a strictly upper triangular operator times an upper triangular operator stays strictly upper triangular.

6.1L5step 5.1step 3.2algebra

The restriction B∣l is nondegenerate: if x∈l satisfies B(x,l)=0, then for every nonzero weight λ we have B(x,gλ)=0 by step 3.2, and B(x,l)=0 by hypothesis, so B(x,g)=0 and [L5] gives x=0. Applying this to step 5.1 yields [l,l]=0.

7.1L1L5step 3.1step 6.1algebra

Every element of l is semisimple: for x∈l we have xn∈l by step 3.1, and [xn,y]=[x,y]−[xs,y]=0 for every y∈l because x∈l and xs∈t; hence ad⁡xn commutes with ad⁡y and the product ad⁡xnad⁡y is nilpotent, so B(xn,y)=0 for all y∈l. Nondegeneracy from step 6.1 forces xn=0. Thus l is abelian and consists of semisimple elements, i.e. l is toral; since t⊆l, maximality gives l=t.

8.1A1L1L7L9step 2.1step 7.1algebra∎

Finally Ng(t)=t: if x∈Ng(t) and x=∑λxλ is its decomposition from step 2.1, then for every h∈t we have [h,x]=∑λλ(h)xλ∈t=g0. Uniqueness of the direct weight-space decomposition forces every nonzero-weight component λ(h)xλ of this sum to vanish. For each λ≠0, choose h∈t with λ(h)≠0; then xλ=0. Therefore x∈g0=l=t. Since t is abelian and hence nilpotent and equals its normalizer, [L7] makes it a Cartan subalgebra. The Axiom of Choice was inherited through [L1] and [L9].

LemmaStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedjudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Generalized weight spaces of a nilpotent subalgebra

Statement

Let g be a finite-dimensional complex Lie algebra and let h⊆g be a nilpotent Lie subalgebra (Lower central series and nilpotent Lie algebras, Lie subalgebras, ideals, and center). For α∈h∗ put

gα={X∈g:for each H∈h there is n=n(H,X) with (ad⁡H−α(H))nX=0},

with ad⁡H(X)=[H,X] as in Derivations of Lie algebras. Then:

(i) each gα is a linear subspace of g stable under ad⁡H for every H∈h, and gα=0 for all but finitely many α; (ii) g=⨁α∈h∗gα; (iii) h⊆g0; (iv) [gα,gβ]⊆gα+β for all α,β.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: A finite-dimensional complex Lie algebra g and a nilpotent Lie subalgebra h⊆g.

[L1]

A finite-dimensional Lie algebra is nilpotent if and only if every adjoint operator of it is nilpotent (Engel's theorem); applied to h, the endomorphism ad⁡H∣h is nilpotent for every H∈h.

[L2]

A nilpotent Lie algebra is solvable (Nilpotent Lie algebras are solvable), and every nonzero finite-dimensional module of a solvable complex Lie algebra has a flag lowered by every represented operator, by Lie's theorem (Lie's theorem).

[L3]

For an endomorphism T of a finite-dimensional complex vector space V and N=dim⁡V, the generalized eigenspaces ker⁡(T−λ)N are T-invariant and V=⨁λker⁡(T−λ)N (Primary decomposition: the irreducible-power factors of μT split V into their invariant kernels).

Proof

technique · simultaneous generalized eigenspace refinement
1.1L1L3algebra

Let H∈h and N=dim⁡g. By [L3] applied to ad⁡H, the spaces Vλ,H=ker⁡(ad⁡H−λ)N are ad⁡H-invariant and g=⨁λVλ,H. Moreover h⊆g0: for H′∈h, [L1] gives (ad⁡H)nH′=0 for some n, so H′∈g0 because the condition defining g0 is vacuous at α=0. This is (iii).

1.2L1L3algebra

We claim each Vλ,H is stable under ad⁡Y for every Y∈h. By [L1] the operator ad⁡H is nilpotent on h, so there is m≥0 with (ad⁡H)mY=0; put N=dim⁡g, so that (ad⁡H−λ)NX=0 for X∈Vλ,H by the definition of Vλ,H and [L3]. The operator identity (ad⁡H−λ)n[Y,X]=∑k=0n(nk)[(ad⁡H)n−kY,(ad⁡H−λ)kX] holds for every n≥0 by induction on n, because ad⁡H is a derivation: the case n=0 is trivial and the induction step applies ad⁡H−λ to both sides and uses Pascal's rule. Taking n=m+N, every summand vanishes, since either n−k≥m, so (ad⁡H)n−kY=0, or k≥N, so (ad⁡H−λ)kX=0. Hence (ad⁡H−λ)m+N[Y,X]=0 and [Y,X]∈Vλ,H. As Y∈h was arbitrary, every Vλ,H is stable under ad⁡h.

2.1L2step 1.2algebra

Fix a basis H1,…,Hr of h; iterating step 1.2 over the pairwise compatible decompositions g=⨁λVλ,Hj refines the direct sum decomposition to g=⨁(λ1,…,λr)(Vλ1,H1∩⋯∩Vλr,Hr), and each summand is stable under ad⁡H for every H∈h. For a tuple (λ1,…,λr) with nonzero summand W let α∈h∗ be the linear functional with α(Hj)=λj. By [L2], the solvable algebra h acts triangularly on W in a suitable basis v1,…,vs; the diagonal entries of such a triangular form are eigenvalues of ad⁡Hj on W for each j, and since W⊆Vλj,Hj the only eigenvalue of ad⁡Hj there is λj, so every diagonal entry equals α. Hence each vi satisfies (ad⁡H−α(H))ivi=0 for all H∈h, and therefore W⊆gα. In particular only finitely many gα are nonzero.

3.1step 1.2step 2.1algebra

Since each gα is a linear subspace by definition and stable under every ad⁡H by step 1.2, and since an element of gα satisfies the generalized eigenvalue condition for each Hj with value α(Hj), we have gα⊆Vα(H1),H1∩⋯∩Vα(Hr),Hr; combined with step 2.1 and the injectivity of the map (λ1,…,λr)↦∑jλjej on the dual basis, this gives gα=Vα(H1),H1∩⋯∩Vα(Hr),Hr and the direct sum decomposition (ii), with only finitely many nonzero terms. This proves (i) and (ii).

4.1step 3.1algebra∎

For X∈gα, Y∈gβ and H∈h, the binomial expansion gives (ad⁡H−(α+β)(H))n[X,Y]=∑k=0n(nk)[(ad⁡H−α(H))kX,(ad⁡H−β(H))n−kY]; choosing n≥2P where P bounds the two vanishing exponents for X and Y, so that for every k either k≥P or n−k≥P, every summand is zero, hence [X,Y]∈gα+β, which is (iv). If g=0 all spaces are zero and every assertion is vacuous.

TheoremStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Cartan subalgebras are exactly maximal toral subalgebras

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. In a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g, the Cartan subalgebras (Cartan subalgebra) are precisely the maximal toral subalgebras (Toral and maximal toral subalgebras).

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice and a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with Killing form B.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it is inherited through [L1] and [L4].

[L1]

Under AC, every maximal toral subalgebra of g is a Cartan subalgebra (Existence of Cartan subalgebras).

[L2]

Let h⊆g be nilpotent. Its generalized weight spaces gα with respect to h give g=⨁αgα, each gα is ad⁡h-stable, [gα,gβ]⊆gα+β, and h⊆g0 (Generalized weight spaces of a nilpotent subalgebra).

[L3]

A Cartan subalgebra is nilpotent and equals its normalizer, and the normalizer is Ng(h)={x:[x,h]⊆h} (Cartan subalgebra, Normalizer of a Lie subalgebra).

[L4]

Under AC, every element x∈g has an abstract Jordan decomposition whose adjoints are the additive Jordan–Chevalley parts of ad⁡x (Jordan decomposition lies inside a complex semisimple Lie algebra); the semisimple additive part is p(ad⁡x) for a polynomial p, while the other part is nilpotent (Over a perfect field, every endomorphism has a unique commuting semisimple-plus-nilpotent decomposition, polynomial in the endomorphism).

[L5]

A nilpotent Lie algebra is solvable and all its adjoint operators are nilpotent (Engel's theorem, Nilpotent Lie algebras are solvable); a finite-dimensional solvable Lie algebra over C has a common eigenvector in every nonzero finite-dimensional module (Lie's theorem).

[L7]

ad⁡[u,v]=[ad⁡u,ad⁡v] and ad⁡x(y)=[x,y] (Derivations form a Lie algebra and inner derivations an ideal, Derivations of Lie algebras).

[L8]

A toral subalgebra is abelian with all adjoint operators semisimple, and it is maximal toral when maximal by inclusion (Toral and maximal toral subalgebras).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1A1L1L2L3L8

The implication "maximal toral ⇒ Cartan" is [L1]. For the converse, let h be a Cartan subalgebra; by [L3] it is nilpotent and Ng(h)=h. Let g=⨁αgα be its generalized weight decomposition from [L2], so that g0={x∈g:(ad⁡H)kx=0 for all H∈h and large k}.

1.2L2L3L5algebra

We have g0=h: [L2] gives h⊆g0; conversely every X∈Ng(h) lies in g0, because (ad⁡H)kX=(ad⁡H)k−1[H,X] with [H,X]∈h and ad⁡H nilpotent on h by [L5]; so Ng(h)⊆g0. If g0≠h, then g0/h is a nonzero module for the solvable algebra h, so by [L5] there is X∉h whose image in g0/h is a common eigenvector for all ad⁡H; the diagonal functional has value 0 on every H, because ad⁡H is nilpotent on g0, so [H,X]∈h for all H and X∈Ng(h)∖h, contradicting Ng(h)=h. Hence g0=h.

1.3L2L3L4L6L7algebra

For x∈h we have xs,xn∈h and ad⁡xs acts on each gα as the scalar α(x): by [L4] write ad⁡xs=p(ad⁡x); on gα the operator ad⁡x is α(x) plus a commuting nilpotent operator, so p(ad⁡x)=p(α(x)) plus a commuting nilpotent operator, while ad⁡xs restricts semisimply to the invariant subspace gα; hence ad⁡xs∣gα=p(α(x))⋅1, and since xs=x−xn with ad⁡xn nilpotent on gα, comparison of scalar parts gives p(α(x))=α(x). In particular ad⁡xs commutes with every ad⁡H, H∈h, so by [L7] [xs,H]=0 and, g being centerless [L6], xs∈Cg(h)⊆Ng(h)=h; then xn=x−xs∈h as well.

2.1L2L5L6step 1.2algebra

h is abelian: apply the common-eigenvector assertion in [L5] first to g and then to each successive nonzero quotient by the invariant subspaces already obtained. Each quotient has smaller dimension, so this constructs a full invariant flag in finitely many steps. In a basis adapted to the flag, the solvable algebra h acts triangularly, and for upper triangular matrices A,B,C one has tr⁡(ABC)=tr⁡(BAC) since both equal the sum of diagonal products; hence B([H1,H2],H)=tr⁡(ad⁡[H1,H2]ad⁡H)=0 for all H1,H2,H∈h. For X∈gα with α≠0, the operator ad⁡Had⁡X maps gβ into gβ+α by [L2], hence has zero trace because it has no diagonal blocks; therefore B(H,X)=0 for all H∈h, α≠0, X∈gα. Combining the two orthogonality statements with g0=h from step 1.2 gives B([H1,H2],g)=0, and nondegeneracy of B [L6] forces [H1,H2]=0.

3.1L5L6step 2.1algebra

No nonzero element of h has nilpotent adjoint operator: if x∈h has ad⁡x nilpotent, then for y∈h the operators ad⁡x,ad⁡y commute by step 2.1, so ad⁡xad⁡y is nilpotent and B(x,y)=0; and for X∈gα with α≠0 we have B(x,X)=0 by the trace argument of step 2.1 with H=x. Hence B(x,g)=0 and [L6] gives x=0.

4.1A1L3L4L8step 2.1step 1.3step 3.1∎

By steps 1.3 and 3.1 every x∈h has xn=0, that is, x=xs is semisimple; with step 2.1 this makes h a toral subalgebra by [L8]. It is maximal: if t⊇h is toral, then t is abelian with [t,h]=0, so t⊆Cg(h)⊆Ng(h)=h and t=h. Hence h is maximal toral, which is the converse implication. The zero algebra is covered by the convention that its zero subalgebra is both Cartan and maximal toral. The Axiom of Choice was inherited through [L1] and [L4].

TheoremStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Conjugacy of Cartan subalgebras

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Any two Cartan subalgebras (Cartan subalgebra) of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra are carried to one another by an inner automorphism in the connected adjoint group, that is, by an element of the image of the adjoint map of a connected Lie group with Lie algebra g. In particular all Cartan subalgebras have the same dimension.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g, and two Cartan subalgebras h1,h2.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; a countable family of nonempty sets is a family of nonempty sets, so AC supplies the countable-choice hypothesis of [L6] and [L7], whose statement is The Axiom of Countable Choice (ACω).

[L1]

In g the Cartan subalgebras are exactly the maximal toral subalgebras; hence a Cartan subalgebra h is abelian with every ad⁡h semisimple, satisfies Ng(h)=h, and therefore Cg(h)=h (Cartan subalgebras are exactly maximal toral subalgebras, Cartan subalgebra, Normalizer of a Lie subalgebra, Toral and maximal toral subalgebras).

[L2]

Every element x has an abstract Jordan decomposition x=xs+xn, and ad⁡xs is the additive Jordan–Chevalley part of ad⁡x; these parts commute, the first is semisimple and the second nilpotent (Jordan decomposition lies inside a complex semisimple Lie algebra, Over a perfect field, every endomorphism has a unique commuting semisimple-plus-nilpotent decomposition, polynomial in the endomorphism).

[L3]

A pairwise commuting family of semisimple endomorphisms is simultaneously diagonalisable, so for a Cartan subalgebra h there is a weight decomposition g=⨁λ∈h∗gλ with g0=Cg(h)=h (A family of diagonalisable endomorphisms of a finite-dimensional space is simultaneously diagonalisable if and only if its members commute pairwise) by [L1].

[L4]

The Killing form B is symmetric, invariant, and nondegenerate, and g is centerless with ad⁡[u,v]=[ad⁡u,ad⁡v] (Killing form, Trace forms are symmetric and invariant, Cartan's semisimplicity criterion, Semisimple Lie algebras are centerless and perfect, Derivations form a Lie algebra and inner derivations an ideal).

[L6]

Under countable choice there is a connected simply connected real Lie group G with Lie algebra g, viewed as a real Lie algebra (Lie's third fundamental theorem, The Axiom of Countable Choice (ACω)).

[L7]

Under countable choice the image of a smooth Lie-group homomorphism is an immersed Lie subgroup with Lie algebra the image of its differential (Images are immersed Lie subgroups, The Axiom of Countable Choice (ACω)). For G from [L6], the adjoint map Ad⁡:G→GL⁡(g) is a smooth group homomorphism (Adjoint is a smooth Lie-group representation); each value is the differential of the Lie-group automorphism Cg, and therefore preserves the Lie bracket by Differential of a Lie-group homomorphism is a Lie-algebra homomorphism, so its values are real Lie-algebra automorphisms (Conjugation and the adjoint representation of a Lie group). Moreover dAd⁡e(X)=ad⁡X (The differential of Ad is ad). The image is complex-linear: by Adjoint exponential identity, Ad⁡exp⁡X=ead⁡X commutes with multiplication by i, since ad⁡X does; this also follows by uniqueness in the defining linear ODE. By The exponential map is a local diffeomorphism at zero, exponentials contain an identity neighborhood. The subgroup they generate is open, with open complement (a union of cosets), hence is all of connected G. Thus every Ad⁡g is complex-linear. All the countable-choice premises here are supplied by [A1].

[L8]

The action of a Lie group on a manifold is smooth, its orbit maps are smooth, and a smooth map that is a submersion at a point carries neighbourhoods of that point onto neighbourhoods of its image (Smooth left actions of Lie groups, Orbits, stabilizers, and orbit maps of smooth actions, Immersions, submersions, and constant-rank maps, Local normal form for submersions, Every submersion is an open map).

Proof

technique · orbit openness on the strongly regular locus
1.1L4algebra

For x∈g let n(x) be the multiplicity of 0 as an eigenvalue of ad⁡x, i.e. the dimension of its generalized kernel, and let ρ=min⁡x∈gn(x). Writing det⁡(t⋅1−ad⁡x)=∑jdj(x)tj, the coefficients dj are polynomial functions of x and n(x)=min⁡{j:dj(x)≠0}, so ρ=min⁡{j:dj≢0} and the strongly regular locus gsr={x:n(x)=ρ} equals {x:dρ(x)≠0}, the complement of the zero set of the nonzero polynomial dρ.

1.2L1L3algebra

Let h be a Cartan subalgebra. By [L3] there are finitely many nonzero weights λ with gλ≠0 and g=h⊕⨁λ≠0gλ, and for y∈h one has ker⁡(ad⁡y)=h⊕⨁λ≠0,λ(y)=0gλ. Hence the set hreg={y∈h:ker⁡(ad⁡y)=h} is the complement in h of the finitely many proper subspaces ker⁡(λ∣h), which cannot exhaust h: the product of their nonzero defining linear forms is a nonzero polynomial and cannot vanish on all of the complex vector space h (induct on the number of coordinates, using that a nonzero one-variable polynomial has finitely many roots). For an empty family this product is 1. Thus hreg≠∅.

1.3L7algebra

Define x∼y on gsr when some a∈Ad⁡(G) satisfies a(Cg(x))=Cg(y). This is an equivalence relation because Ad⁡(G) is a group: reflexivity uses a=1, symmetry uses a−1, and transitivity uses the product of the two group elements.

2.1step 1.1algebra

The complement of the zero set of a nonzero complex polynomial P on a finite-dimensional complex vector space V is path-connected and dense: density holds because a polynomial vanishing on a nonempty open set vanishes identically, and for P(x)≠0≠P(y) the one-variable polynomial t↦P(x+t(y−x)) has finitely many zeros, so the line through x and y with finitely many points removed is path-connected and avoids the zero set of P. Applying this to V=g and P=dρ, the locus gsr of step 1.1 is nonempty, dense and path-connected, hence connected.

2.2L7L8step 1.2algebra

For y∈hreg the orbit Ad⁡(G)y has g as the direct sum ker⁡(ad⁡y)⊕im⁡(ad⁡y)=h⊕[g,y], because ad⁡y is semisimple. Consider the smooth map σ:G×hreg→g, σ(a,z)=Ad⁡(a)z, for the group G and its immersed image Ad⁡(G) of [L6], [L7]. Its differential at (1,y) is (X,v)↦[X,y]+v for X∈g and v∈h, by dAd⁡e=ad⁡ in [L7] and the bilinear evaluation map; its image is [g,y]+h=g. Hence by [L8] the image of σ contains a neighbourhood of y, and by [L7] it equals the set Uh:=Ad⁡(G)⋅hreg, which is therefore open in g and nonempty.

3.1L7step 2.1step 2.2algebra

Every element of Uh is semisimple, and has n-value dim⁡h: automorphisms preserve the adjoint action, so ad⁡Ad⁡(a)z=Ad⁡(a)ad⁡zAd⁡(a)−1 has the same generalized nullity as ad⁡z, and n(z)=dim⁡ker⁡(ad⁡z)=dim⁡h for z∈hreg by step 1.2; semisimplicity is preserved because the operator is conjugate to a semisimple one. Since Uh is nonempty open and gsr is dense by step 2.1, Uh meets gsr; at such a point n=ρ, so ρ=dim⁡h. Consequently Uh⊆gsr, and this holds for every Cartan subalgebra.

4.1L1L2step 3.1algebra

Let x∈gsr and put A=ad⁡x=S+N, where S=ad⁡xs and N=ad⁡xn are the commuting semisimple and nilpotent parts from [L2]. Decompose g=⨁λVλ into the eigenspaces of S. Commutation makes each Vλ invariant under N. On V0, A=N is nilpotent. On Vλ for λ≠0, A=λI+N is invertible, with inverse λ−1∑j=0m−1(−N/λ)j if Nm=0. Thus the generalized zero-eigenspace of A is exactly V0=ker⁡S, proving n(xs)=n(x)=ρ. The line Cxs is toral. Choose a toral subalgebra h containing it of largest possible dimension; dimensions are bounded by dim⁡g, so such a subalgebra exists and is maximal toral. By [L1] it is Cartan. Then h⊆Cg(xs), and both have dimension ρ, the former by step 3.1 and the latter by the equality just proved.

5.1L1step 4.1algebra

Consequently l=Cg(xs)=h is a Cartan subalgebra. This conclusion uses the dimension equality in step 4.1 and the maximal-toral characterization; it does not infer equality merely from a lower bound on generalized nullity.

6.1L1step 5.1algebra

Every x∈gsr is semisimple and Cg(x) is a Cartan subalgebra: by step 5.1 applied to xs we get that l=Cg(xs) is a Cartan subalgebra, and by [L1] it is maximal toral, hence consists of semisimple elements; since [x,xs]=0, we have x∈l, so x is semisimple. Now l is abelian and contains x, so l⊆Cg(x). Since x is semisimple, dim⁡Cg(x)=n(x)=ρ=dim⁡l, whence Cg(x)=l is Cartan.

7.1L7step 1.2step 2.1step 2.2step 6.1algebra

Each class of the relation of step 1.3 is open in gsr. Let x∈gsr and put hx=Cg(x). By step 6.1 the subalgebra hx is a Cartan subalgebra and x is semisimple, so ker⁡(ad⁡x)=hx; hence x is a regular element of hx in the sense of step 1.2, and hx satisfies the hypotheses of step 2.2. Therefore Uhx:=Ad⁡(G)⋅(hx)reg is open in g by step 2.2. Moreover Uhx is exactly the class of x: every Ad⁡(a)z with z∈(hx)reg has centralizer Ad⁡(a)Cg(z)=Ad⁡(a)hx, which is conjugate to hx=Cg(x); conversely if x′∈gsr has Cg(x′)=Ad⁡(a)hx, then z:=Ad⁡(a−1)x′ has centralizer hx, so z∈(hx)reg and x′=Ad⁡(a)z∈Uhx. As classes of an equivalence relation are pairwise disjoint and gsr≠∅ by step 2.1, every class is a nonempty open subset of gsr.

8.1A1L2L6L7step 2.1step 3.1step 6.1step 1.3step 7.1∎

The classes of step 1.3 are pairwise disjoint nonempty open subsets of the connected set gsr of step 2.1, so there is exactly one class by step 7.1. Hence Cg(x1) and Cg(x2) are conjugate for all x1,x2∈gsr; by step 6.1 they are Cartan subalgebras, and every Cartan subalgebra h arises in this way, since for y∈hreg (nonempty by step 1.2) step 3.1 gives n(y)=dim⁡h=ρ, so y∈gsr and Cg(y)=ker⁡(ad⁡y)=h. Therefore h1 and h2 are conjugate by an element of Ad⁡(G), an inner automorphism in the connected adjoint group, and conjugate subalgebras have the same dimension. If g=0 both Cartan subalgebras are zero and the identity conjugates them. The Axiom of Choice supplies the hypotheses of [L1] and [L2] and, via [A1], the countable-choice hypotheses in [L6] and [L7].

DefinitionDefinition: Literature-sourcedProof: Not applicablejudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Root and root space

Definition

Let g be a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra and let h be a Cartan subalgebra of g (Cartan subalgebra). For α∈h∗ define the root space

gα={x∈g:[H,x]=α(H)x for all H∈h},

using [H,x]=ad⁡H(x) from Derivations of Lie algebras.

A root of g with respect to h is a nonzero functional α∈h∗ with gα≠0. The set of roots is written Φ(g,h), or simply Φ. By convention, gλ=0 when a functional λ∈h∗ is neither zero nor a root.

TheoremStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedjudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Root-space decomposition

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let g be a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra, let h be a Cartan subalgebra, and let Φ=Φ(g,h) be the set of roots of Root and root space. Then Φ is finite and g=h⊕⨁α∈Φgα is a direct sum of h with the nonzero root spaces.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, such a Lie algebra g, and a Cartan subalgebra h.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it is inherited here through [L1].

[L1]

Cartan subalgebras of g are exactly the maximal toral subalgebras; a Cartan subalgebra is nilpotent and equals its normalizer (Cartan subalgebras are exactly maximal toral subalgebras, Cartan subalgebra, Normalizer of a Lie subalgebra, Toral and maximal toral subalgebras).

[L2]

A pairwise commuting family of diagonalisable endomorphisms of a finite-dimensional vector space is simultaneously diagonalisable (A family of diagonalisable endomorphisms of a finite-dimensional space is simultaneously diagonalisable if and only if its members commute pairwise).

[L3]

For α∈h∗, the root space is gα={x:[H,x]=α(H)x for all H∈h}, and a root is a nonzero α with gα≠0 (Root and root space).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1L1L2L3algebra

By [L1] the subalgebra h is abelian and ad⁡H is semisimple for every H∈h; the family {ad⁡H}H∈h is therefore pairwise commuting and [L2] makes it simultaneously diagonalisable. Hence g=⨁α∈h∗gα with the gα of [L3].

1.2L1L3algebra

The zero weight space is g0={x:[H,x]=0 for all H∈h}=Cg(h). Since h is abelian we have h⊆Cg(h), and Cg(h)⊆Ng(h)=h by [L1]; hence g0=h.

2.1A1L1step 1.1step 1.2algebra∎

Consequently g=h⊕⨁α≠0gα where the sum runs over all nonzero functionals, and deleting the zero summands leaves precisely the sum over the roots; the decomposition is direct because it is a subsum of a direct sum. Only finitely many root spaces are nonzero, because g is finite-dimensional and the summands are linearly independent nonzero subspaces, so Φ is finite. The Axiom of Choice was inherited from [L1].

PropositionStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedjudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Brackets of root spaces

Statement

Let h be a Cartan subalgebra of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g, and let gα be the root spaces of Root and root space for α∈h∗∪{0}, with gγ=0 whenever γ is not a root or 0. Then [gα,gβ]⊆gα+β for all α,β∈h∗.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: Such g,h and functionals α,β.

[L1]

For H∈h, the operator ad⁡H of Derivations of Lie algebras is a derivation: ad⁡H[x,y]=[ad⁡Hx,y]+[x,ad⁡Hy] (Derivations form a Lie algebra and inner derivations an ideal).

[L2]

The root spaces are the eigenspaces gγ={x:[H,x]=γ(H)x for all H∈h} and the root-space decomposition holds (Root and root space, Root-space decomposition).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1L1algebra

Let x∈gα, y∈gβ and H∈h. By [L1], [H,[x,y]]=[ [H,x],y ]+[x,[H,y]]=[α(H)x,y]+[x,β(H)y]=(α+β)(H)[x,y].

2.1L2step 1.1algebra∎

Since the functional α+β acts on [x,y] by the scalar (α+β)(H) for every H∈h, step 1.1 says [x,y]∈gα+β whenever α+β is a root or 0, and says [x,y]=0⊆gα+β=0 when α+β is neither, which is the convention of the statement; this covers all x∈gα and y∈gβ, so [gα,gβ]⊆gα+β. The case α=β=0 says that h is a subalgebra, which it is.

PropositionStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Orthogonality of root spaces and nondegeneracy on the Cartan subalgebra

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let h be a Cartan subalgebra of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with Killing form B, and let Φ=Φ(g,h) be the root set (Root and root space).

(i) If α,β∈Φ∪{0} and α+β≠0, then B(gα,gβ)=0. (ii) The restriction B∣h is nondegenerate.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, such g,h and roots α,β.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it licenses the root-space decomposition in [L2].

[L1]

The Killing form is the trace form of the adjoint representation, and trace forms of finite-dimensional representations are symmetric and invariant: B([z,x],y)+B(x,[z,y])=0 (Killing form, Trace forms are symmetric and invariant).

[L2]

The root spaces are the simultaneous weight spaces of ad⁡h, g=h⊕⨁γ∈Φgγ is a direct sum, and [gα,gβ]⊆gα+β (Root and root space, Root-space decomposition, Brackets of root spaces).

[L3]

A Cartan subalgebra of a complex semisimple Lie algebra is maximal toral, and a toral subalgebra is abelian (Cartan subalgebras are exactly maximal toral subalgebras, Toral and maximal toral subalgebras).

[L4]

B is nondegenerate because g is semisimple (Cartan's semisimplicity criterion).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1A1L1L2L3algebra

We first justify the zero-weight convention in (i). By [L3], h is abelian, so h⊆g0. Conversely, if x∈g0, write x=H0+∑γ∈Φxγ by [L2]. For every H∈h, the equality 0=[H,x]=∑γγ(H)xγ and directness of the decomposition give γ(H)xγ=0 for every γ and every H. Since each root γ is a nonzero functional, this forces every xγ=0, so x=H0∈h and g0=h. Now let x∈gα and y∈gβ. Invariance [L1] gives 0=B([H,x],y)+B(x,[H,y])=(α(H)+β(H))B(x,y). If α+β≠0, some H∈h has (α+β)(H)≠0, whence B(x,y)=0. This proves (i).

2.1A1L2L4step 1.1algebra∎

For (ii) let x∈h satisfy B(x,h)=0. By (i) every gγ with γ≠0 is orthogonal to h=g0, so B(x,gγ)=0 for all γ≠0 as well, and by [L2] B(x,g)=0. Nondegeneracy [L4] gives x=0.

CorollaryStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Opposite root spaces pair nondegenerately

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let α be a root of the finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with respect to a Cartan subalgebra h (Root and root space). Then −α is a root, and the Killing form restricts to a nondegenerate pairing gα×g−α→C; in particular g−α≠0 and B is nonzero on gα×g−α.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, such g,h and a root α.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it licenses the orthogonality and root-space decomposition used in [L1] and [L2].

[L1]

B(gγ,gδ)=0 whenever γ+δ≠0, and B∣h is nondegenerate (Orthogonality of root spaces and nondegeneracy on the Cartan subalgebra).

[L2]

g=h⊕⨁γ∈Φgγ is a direct sum (Root-space decomposition), and B is nondegenerate on the semisimple algebra g (Cartan's semisimplicity criterion).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1A1L1L2algebra

Let 0≠x∈gα. By nondegeneracy of B there is y∈g with B(x,y)≠0; write y=y0+∑γyγ according to [L2]. By [L1] all summands vanish in the pairing with x except possibly y−α, whose weight space would make −α a root; hence B(x,y−α)≠0, so −α is a root and g−α≠0.

2.1L1L2step 1.1algebra∎

The restriction of B to gα⊕g−α is nondegenerate: if x∈gα pairs to zero with all of g−α, then it pairs to zero with every weight space and with h by [L1], hence with g, so x=0; the same argument applies to g−α. Since gα≠0 by definition of a root, this nondegenerate pairing is nonzero.

DefinitionDefinition: Literature-sourcedProof: Not applicableaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Killing-dual vector of a root

Definition

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let h be a Cartan subalgebra of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g, with root set Φ (Root and root space), and let B be the Killing form (Killing form). Since B∣h is nondegenerate by Orthogonality of root spaces and nondegeneracy on the Cartan subalgebra, the map h→h∗, H↦B(H,⋅), is a linear isomorphism; for α∈Φ the unique vector

Hα∈h,B(Hα,H)=α(H)for all H∈h,

is the Killing-dual vector of the root α. For α≠0 it is nonzero, since a nonzero functional cannot be represented by the zero vector under an isomorphism.

PropositionStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

The bracket of opposite root spaces is the root line

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let α be a root of the finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with respect to a Cartan subalgebra h, and let Hα∈h be its Killing-dual vector (Killing-dual vector of a root). Then [gα,g−α]=CHα.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, such g,h and a root α, with Killing form B.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it licenses the root decomposition, Killing-dual vector, and opposite-root pairing in [L1]--[L3].

[L1]

[gα,g−α]⊆g0, where g0 is the simultaneous zero-weight space, and g=h⊕⨁γ∈Φgγ is a direct sum (Root and root space, Brackets of root spaces, Root-space decomposition).

[L2]

B is invariant and B∣h is nondegenerate; B(Hα,H)=α(H) for all H∈h (Trace forms are symmetric and invariant, Orthogonality of root spaces and nondegeneracy on the Cartan subalgebra, Killing-dual vector of a root, Killing form).

[L3]

The pairing gα×g−α→C given by B is nondegenerate (Opposite root spaces pair nondegenerately).

[L4]

A Cartan subalgebra of a complex semisimple Lie algebra is maximal toral, and a toral subalgebra is abelian (Cartan subalgebras are exactly maximal toral subalgebras, Toral and maximal toral subalgebras).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1A1L1L4algebra

We first prove that the zero-weight space in [L1] is h. By [L4], h is abelian, so h⊆g0. Conversely, if x∈g0, write x=H0+∑γ∈Φxγ by [L1]. For every H∈h, directness and 0=[H,x]=∑γγ(H)xγ imply γ(H)xγ=0 for every root γ. Since each γ is a nonzero functional, every xγ vanishes; hence x=H0∈h and g0=h. In particular [L1] gives [gα,g−α]⊆h.

2.1A1L2L3step 1.1algebra∎

Let e∈gα, f∈g−α and H∈h. By step 1.1, [e,f]∈h, and invariance [L2] together with [f,H]=α(H)f gives B([e,f],H)=B(e,[f,H])=α(H)B(e,f)=B(B(e,f)Hα,H). Nondegeneracy of B∣h yields [e,f]=B(e,f)Hα, so every such bracket lies in CHα. By [L3] some e,f have B(e,f)≠0; then their bracket is nonzero because Hα≠0 by Killing-dual vector of a root. Therefore the bracket is exactly CHα.

LemmaStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

The Killing length of a root is nonzero

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let α be a root of the finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with respect to a Cartan subalgebra h, with Killing-dual vector Hα (Killing-dual vector of a root). Then B(Hα,Hα)=α(Hα)≠0.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, such g,h,α and the Killing form B.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it licenses the Killing-dual, opposite-root, and root-decomposition facts used in [L1] and [L2].

[L1]

B(Hα,H)=α(H) for all H∈h, and B∣h is nondegenerate; the pairing gα×g−α is nondegenerate (Killing-dual vector of a root, Orthogonality of root spaces and nondegeneracy on the Cartan subalgebra, Opposite root spaces pair nondegenerately).

[L2]

[gα,g−α]=CHα⊆h, and the root spaces are the eigenspaces of ad⁡h (The bracket of opposite root spaces is the root line, Root and root space).

[L3]

Cartan subalgebras are maximal toral, so every element of h has semisimple adjoint operator (Cartan subalgebras are exactly maximal toral subalgebras, Toral and maximal toral subalgebras).

[L4]

Every nonzero finite-dimensional module for a solvable finite-dimensional complex Lie algebra has a common eigenvector, and a nilpotent Lie algebra is solvable (Lie's theorem, Nilpotent Lie algebras are solvable); ad⁡[u,v]=[ad⁡u,ad⁡v] (Derivations form a Lie algebra and inner derivations an ideal, Derivations of Lie algebras).

[L5]

The algebra is centerless (Semisimple Lie algebras are centerless and perfect) and B(x,y)=tr⁡(ad⁡xad⁡y) (Killing form, Trace forms are symmetric and invariant).

Proof

technique · contradiction via Lie's theorem
1.1A1L1L2L5algebra

By [L1] choose e∈gα and f∈g−α with B(e,f)≠0 and put z=[e,f]. By [L2], z∈h. For every H∈h, invariance from [L5] gives B(z,H)=B(e,[f,H])=α(H)B(e,f)=B(B(e,f)Hα,H). Nondegeneracy of B∣h from [L1] therefore gives z=B(e,f)Hα≠0. Also [z,e]=α(z)e and [z,f]=−α(z)f, while α(z)=B(e,f)α(Hα).

1.2A1L2L4algebra

Suppose α(Hα)=0. Then α(z)=0, so [z,e]=[z,f]=0, the span a=Ce+Cf+Cz is a Lie subalgebra with [a,a]⊆Cz and z central in a; in particular a is nilpotent and hence solvable by [L4]. Apply the common-eigenvector assertion of [L4] to the adjoint a-module g: it gives a one-dimensional invariant subspace V1. Applying it again to the induced action on g/V1, and successively to each quotient by the invariant subspaces already obtained, constructs a full invariant flag 0=V0⊂V1⊂⋯⊂Vn=g. In a basis adapted to this flag every ad⁡x, x∈a, is upper triangular. Hence ad⁡z=[ad⁡e,ad⁡f] is upper triangular with zero diagonal, because the diagonal of a product of upper triangular matrices is the product of their diagonals and scalar diagonal entries commute. Thus ad⁡z is strictly upper triangular and nilpotent.

2.1A1L1L3L5step 1.1step 1.2algebra∎

But z∈h, and by [L3] the operator ad⁡z is semisimple; an operator that is both semisimple and nilpotent is zero, so ad⁡z=0 and z lies in the center. By [L5] the center is zero, so z=0, contradicting step 1.1, and therefore α(Hα)≠0; because B(Hα,Hα)=α(Hα) by [L1], this is the claim.

DefinitionDefinition: Literature-sourcedProof: Not applicableaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Coroot of a Lie-algebra root

Definition

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let α be a root of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with respect to a Cartan subalgebra h, and let Hα∈h be its Killing-dual vector (Killing-dual vector of a root). By The Killing length of a root is nonzero the number α(Hα) equals B(Hα,Hα) and is nonzero, so the following element of h is well defined:

hα=2Hαα(Hα).

It is called the coroot of α. It satisfies B(hα,H)=2α(H)α(Hα) for all H∈h, and α(hα)=2.

DefinitionDefinition: Literature-sourcedProof: Not applicablejudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

The special linear Lie algebra sl_2

Definition

Write gl2(C)=M2(C) for the Lie algebra of complex 2×2 matrices under the commutator bracket [A,B]=AB−BA (Representations of Lie algebras, Lie algebras over a field). The special linear Lie algebra sl2(C) is the Lie subalgebra (Lie subalgebras, ideals, and center) of traceless matrices

sl2(C)={A∈M2(C):tr⁡A=0},

which is closed under the bracket because tr⁡(AB−BA)=0. Put

e=(0100),f=(0010),h=(100−1).

Direct matrix multiplication gives he−eh=2e, hf−fh=−2f and ef−fe=h, that is,

[h,e]=2e,[h,f]=−2f,[e,f]=h.

Since {e,f,h} is a basis of the space of traceless matrices, these relations determine the bracket completely, sl2(C) is three-dimensional, and h spans a one-dimensional abelian subalgebra. A Lie algebra over C is called a copy of sl2 if it has a basis (e,f,h) satisfying exactly these three bracket relations.

TheoremStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

The root sl_2 triple

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let α be a root of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with respect to a Cartan subalgebra h, with coroot hα as in Coroot of a Lie-algebra root. Then there are eα∈gα and fα∈g−α with

[eα,fα]=hα,[hα,eα]=2eα,[hα,fα]=−2fα.

Consequently the span of eα,fα,hα is a copy of sl2 inside g (The special linear Lie algebra sl_2).

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, such g,h,α and the Killing form B.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it licenses the Killing-dual, coroot, and opposite-root pairing facts in [L1]--[L3].

[L1]

The pairing gα×g−α→C, (x,y)↦B(x,y), is nondegenerate (Opposite root spaces pair nondegenerately).

[L2]

[gα,g−α]=CHα (The bracket of opposite root spaces is the root line); the Killing form is invariant and its restriction to h is nondegenerate (Trace forms are symmetric and invariant, Orthogonality of root spaces and nondegeneracy on the Cartan subalgebra).

[L3]

B(Hα,H)=α(H) for H∈h, and hα=2Hα/α(Hα) with α(Hα)=B(Hα,Hα)≠0, so α(hα)=2 (Coroot of a Lie-algebra root, Killing-dual vector of a root).

[L4]

The root spaces are the eigenspaces of ad⁡h (Root and root space), and [gα,g−α]⊆g0 (Brackets of root spaces).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1A1L1L3algebra

Choose 0≠e∈gα, which is possible because α is a root. By [L1] the linear functional y↦B(e,y) on the nonzero space g−α is not identically zero, hence surjective onto C; choose f∈g−α with B(e,f)=2/α(Hα), a nonzero number by [L3].

2.1L2L3L4step 1.1algebra

For every H∈h, invariance and the root-space identity give B([e,f],H)=B(e,[f,H])=α(H)B(e,f)=B(B(e,f)Hα,H). Both [e,f] and Hα lie in h by [L2], so nondegeneracy of B∣h yields [e,f]=B(e,f)Hα=2α(Hα)Hα=hα. By [L4] and [L3], [hα,e]=α(hα)e=2e and [hα,f]=−2f. Thus all three bracket relations of The special linear Lie algebra sl_2 hold for (e,f,hα).

3.1step 1.1step 2.1algebra∎

Since 0≠e∈gα and 0≠f∈g−α lie in distinct root spaces while hα∈h, the three elements are linearly independent, so their span is three-dimensional and by step 2.1 is closed under the bracket with the relations of sl2; by The special linear Lie algebra sl_2 it is a copy of sl2. Setting eα=e and fα=f proves the statement.

TheoremStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedjudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Finite-dimensional representations of sl_2

Statement

Let sl2 be the three-dimensional Lie algebra of The special linear Lie algebra sl_2 with its basis (e,f,h), and let V be a finite-dimensional module over it (Representations of Lie algebras).

(i) V is a direct sum of irreducible submodules. (ii) If V≠0 is irreducible, there is an integer m≥0 with dim⁡V=m+1 and with h acting diagonalisably with eigenvalues m,m−2,…,−m, each on a one-dimensional subspace. (iii) For arbitrary finite-dimensional V≠0, the operator h acts diagonalisably on V with integer eigenvalues.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Lie algebra sl2=Ch⊕Ce⊕Cf with [h,e]=2e, [h,f]=−2f, [e,f]=h, and a finite-dimensional module V.

[L1]

The bracket relations and the three-dimensionality of sl2 are those of The special linear Lie algebra sl_2; in particular a module is a bilinear action with xy v−yx v=[x,y]v (Representations of Lie algebras).

[L2]

Every endomorphism of a nonzero finite-dimensional complex vector space has an eigenvalue (Every endomorphism of a nonzero finite-dimensional vector space over an algebraically closed field has an eigenvalue); commuting operators preserve each other's eigenspaces (Commuting endomorphisms preserve each other's eigenspaces).

[L3]

Every finite-dimensional module of a finite-dimensional semisimple Lie algebra over a characteristic-zero field is completely reducible (Weyl's complete reducibility theorem, Irreducible, completely reducible, and faithful representations).

[L4]

A finite-dimensional characteristic-zero Lie algebra is semisimple if and only if its Killing form is nondegenerate (Cartan's semisimplicity criterion, Killing form).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1L1L3L4algebra

The algebra sl2 is semisimple: in the basis (h,e,f) one computes ad⁡h=diag⁡(0,2,−2), ad⁡e=(001−200000) and ad⁡f=(0−10000200), whence B(h,h)=8, B(e,f)=B(f,e)=4 and the remaining pairings vanish; that matrix has nonzero determinant, so the Killing form is nondegenerate and [L4] makes sl2 semisimple. Consequently [L3] gives (i): every finite-dimensional V is a direct sum of irreducible submodules.

1.2L1L2algebra

Let V≠0 be irreducible. Since h is an endomorphism of a nonzero finite-dimensional complex vector space, [L2] gives an eigenvalue λ and eigenvector v≠0 with hv=λv; because h(ev)=e(hv)+[h,e]v=(λ+2)ev and h(fv)=(λ−2)fv by [L1], the sum W of all eigenspaces of h in V is a nonzero submodule, so W=V; thus h acts diagonalisably on an irreducible module.

2.1L1step 1.2algebra

Let V≠0 be irreducible, choose among its finitely many eigenvalues of h one with maximal real part, say λ, and choose 0≠v∈V with hv=λv. Then ev=0: otherwise ev is an eigenvector of h with eigenvalue λ+2, contradicting maximality of the real part. Put vk=fkv for k≥0; induction on k using [e,f]=h gives hvk=(λ−2k)vk and evk=k(λ−k+1)vk−1 for k≥1.

3.1step 1.2step 2.1algebra

The vectors vk of step 2.1 cannot all be nonzero: nonzero vk are eigenvectors of h with the distinct eigenvalues λ−2k, hence linearly independent, and V is finite-dimensional. Let N+1 be the least index with vN+1=0; then v0,…,vN≠0. Applying step 2.1's formula for e at k=N+1 gives 0=evN+1=(N+1)(λ−N)vN, so λ=N∈Z≥0 because the field has characteristic zero. The span of v0,…,vN is a nonzero submodule by the same formulas, hence equals V by irreducibility; it has dimension N+1 and its h-eigenvalues are N,N−2,…,−N, each with a one-dimensional eigenspace. This proves (ii).

4.1step 1.1step 3.1algebra∎

Finally, an arbitrary nonzero finite-dimensional V is a direct sum of irreducibles by (i), and on each summand h is diagonalisable with the integer eigenvalues of (ii); hence h is diagonalisable on all of V with integer eigenvalues, which is (iii). If V=0 all three statements are vacuous.

TheoremStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

The root-string property

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let h be a Cartan subalgebra of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g, let α,β∈h∗ with α∈Φ(g,h) and β∈Φ(g,h)∪{0}, and put gγ=0 whenever γ is neither a root nor 0. Then the set {k∈Z:gβ+kα≠0} is a nonempty interval of consecutive integers {−p,−p+1,…,q} with p≥0, q≥0, and p−q=β(hα)∈Z.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, such g,h,α,β as in the statement, with coroot hα and root decomposition g=h⊕⨁γ∈Φgγ.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it licenses the root triple and root-space decomposition in [L1], [L2], and [L4].

[L1]

There are eα∈gα, fα∈g−α with [eα,fα]=hα, [hα,eα]=2eα, [hα,fα]=−2fα, so that Ceα⊕Cfα⊕Chα is a copy of sl2 (The root sl_2 triple, The special linear Lie algebra sl_2).

[L2]

With g0=h and gλ=0 when λ is neither a root nor zero, the bracket of weight spaces satisfies [gγ,gδ]⊆gγ+δ for all functionals γ,δ (Brackets of root spaces, Root-space decomposition).

[L3]

Every finite-dimensional module over a copy of sl2 is a direct sum of irreducibles whose h-weights are m,m−2,…,−m for some integer m≥0, each on a one-dimensional weight space (Finite-dimensional representations of sl_2).

[L4]

Root spaces are eigenspaces of ad⁡h and the sum h⊕⨁γ∈Φgγ is direct (Root and root space, Root-space decomposition).

[L5]

α(hα)=2 (Coroot of a Lie-algebra root).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1A1L1L2L4L5algebra

The subspace V=⨁k∈Zgβ+kα is finite-dimensional. By [L2], ad⁡eα maps its k-th summand into its (k+1)-st summand and ad⁡fα maps it into its (k−1)-st summand, including any case in which the target is g0=h; ad⁡hα preserves every summand. Thus V is a finite-dimensional module over the copy of sl2 in [L1]. On gβ+kα, hα has eigenvalue β(hα)+2k by [L5], and these eigenvalues are distinct as k varies. Hence the nonzero summands gβ+kα are exactly the hα-weight spaces of V.

2.1L3step 1.1algebra

Decompose V into irreducibles as in [L3]. If W is one irreducible summand, its hα-weights are m,m−2,…,−m with m≥0 integer. Thus the indices k for which W∩gβ+kα≠0 form an interval of integers {aW,aW+1,…,bW} determined by β(hα)+2aW=−m and β(hα)+2bW=m. Consequently aW+bW=−β(hα) for every irreducible summand W.

3.1L4step 1.1step 2.1algebra∎

The intervals in step 2.1 all have centre −β(hα)/2, so they are nested and their finite union is the interval {a,a+1,…,b} with a+b=−β(hα). This union is exactly {k:gβ+kα≠0} by step 1.1. It contains 0, because gβ≠0 for β∈Φ∪{0} and g0=h≠0; hence a≤0≤b. Put p=−a≥0 and q=b≥0. Then the index set is {−p,…,q} and p−q=−(a+b)=β(hα)∈Z.

CorollaryStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Cartan integers are integers

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let h be a Cartan subalgebra of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with root set Φ (Root and root space). For roots α,β∈Φ the Cartan integer ⟨β,α∨⟩:=β(hα)=2B(Hα,Hβ)B(Hα,Hα) is an integer.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, such g,h and roots α,β.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it licenses the root-string and coroot facts in [L1] and [L2].

[L1]

The set {k∈Z:gβ+kα≠0} is a nonempty interval {−p,…,q} of consecutive integers with p−q=β(hα) (The root-string property).

[L2]

The coroot hα=2Hα/α(Hα) and the Killing-dual vector are as in Coroot of a Lie-algebra root (Root and root space supplies the root set).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1A1L1algebra

By [L1] applied to the roots α,β there are nonnegative integers p,q with p−q=β(hα).

2.1L1L2step 1.1algebra∎

Since p and q are integers, their difference β(hα) is an integer; this is the claimed integrality. The displayed formula for the Cartan integer is the definition of Hα and hα from [L2].

TheoremStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Root spaces of a complex semisimple Lie algebra are one-dimensional

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let α be a root of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with respect to a Cartan subalgebra h (Root and root space). Then dim⁡gα=1.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, such g,h and a root α.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it licenses the root triple, coroot, opposite-bracket, and root-decomposition facts in [L1]--[L3].

[L1]

There is a triple eα∈gα, fα∈g−α, hα=[eα,fα] with [hα,eα]=2eα and [hα,fα]=−2fα (The root sl_2 triple, Coroot of a Lie-algebra root).

[L2]

[gγ,gδ]⊆gγ+δ with gη=0 for η neither a root nor 0, and g0=h (Brackets of root spaces, Root-space decomposition).

[L3]

[gα,g−α]=CHα⊆h for the corresponding dual vector (The bracket of opposite root spaces is the root line).

[L4]

A trace of a commutator of finite-dimensional endomorphisms vanishes, tr⁡(AB)=tr⁡(BA) (For A∈Mm×n(F) and B∈Mn×m(F), tr⁡(AB)=tr⁡(BA)).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1A1L1L2L3algebra

Put W=Ceα⊕Chα⊕⨁k<0gkα, a finite-dimensional subspace of g containing g−α. It is stable under ad⁡hα by [L2] together with [hα,eα]=2eα and [hα,hα]=0 from [L1]; it is stable under ad⁡eα because [eα,gkα]⊆g(k+1)α with (k+1)α either 0 or a negative multiple, [eα,g−α]⊆CHα by [L3], and [eα,hα]=−2eα; and it is stable under ad⁡fα because [fα,gkα]⊆g(k−1)α and [fα,hα]=2fα, [fα,eα]=−hα.

2.1L1L4step 1.1algebra

Since hα=[eα,fα], the restriction of ad⁡hα to the invariant subspace W is a commutator of the restrictions of ad⁡eα and ad⁡fα, so its trace vanishes by [L4].

3.1L1L2step 2.1algebra

On the other hand ad⁡hα acts on Ceα by the scalar 2, on Chα by 0, and on the eigenspace gkα, k<0, by the scalar kα(hα)=2k; hence 0=tr⁡(ad⁡hα∣W)=2−2∑j≥1jdim⁡g−jα, that is, ∑j≥1jdim⁡g−jα=1. As the summands are nonnegative integers, dim⁡g−α=1 and dim⁡g−jα=0 for j≥2.

4.1L1L2L3L4step 3.1algebra∎

The argument is symmetric in α and −α: the triple (fα,eα,−hα) satisfies the same relations with −α in place of α by [L1], and all the facts [L2]–[L4] are unchanged. Applying step 3.1 with −α therefore gives dim⁡gα=1 and dim⁡gjα=0 for j≥2, which proves the statement.

CorollaryStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

The only scalar multiples of a root that are roots are plus or minus the root

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let h be a Cartan subalgebra of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g and let α,cα∈Φ be roots, where Φ is the root set of Root and root space. Then c=±1.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, such g,h and roots α and β=cα.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it licenses the Killing-dual, coroot, root-triple, and opposite-bracket facts in [L1]--[L4].

[L1]

For every root γ, its coroot is hγ=2Hγ/γ(Hγ) with Hγ the Killing-dual vector and γ(Hγ)≠0 (Coroot of a Lie-algebra root, Killing-dual vector of a root).

[L2]

Cartan integers are integral: β(hα)∈Z and α(hβ)∈Z for roots α,β (Cartan integers are integers).

[L3]

For every root γ there are eγ∈gγ, fγ∈g−γ, and hγ=[eγ,fγ] satisfying the sl2 relations (The root sl_2 triple).

[L4]

Root-space brackets add their weights, and the opposite bracket is the line CHγ=Chγ (Brackets of root spaces, The bracket of opposite root spaces is the root line).

[L5]

The trace of a commutator of finite-dimensional endomorphisms is zero (For A∈Mm×n(F) and B∈Mn×m(F), tr⁡(AB)=tr⁡(BA)).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1A1L1algebra

Since Hcα=cHα by the defining equation B(Hcα,H)=cα(H), the coroots satisfy hcα=2cHαcα(cHα)=2Hαc α(Hα)=hα/c.

1.2A1L3L4algebra

We first prove that twice a root is never a root. For a root γ, put Wγ=Ceγ⊕Chγ⊕⨁j≥1g−jγ. This is a finite direct sum because the root spaces are joint eigenspaces for distinct functionals in the finite-dimensional space g. It is stable under the adjoint action of the triple in [L3]: ad⁡eγ and ad⁡fγ shift the root-space index by 1 and −1, respectively, the exceptional opposite bracket lands in Chγ by [L4], and ad⁡hγ preserves every displayed summand.

2.1L2step 1.1algebra

By [L2] applied to the pair (α,β) we get 2c=β(hα)=c α(hα)∈Z, and applied to the pair (β,α) we get 2/c=α(hβ)=α(hα/c)∈Z.

2.2L3L5step 1.2algebra

On Wγ one has ad⁡hγ=[ad⁡eγ,ad⁡fγ], so [L5] makes its trace zero. Its eigenvalues on the displayed direct sum are 2 on Ceγ, 0 on Chγ, and −2j on g−jγ. Therefore 0=2−2∑j≥1jdim⁡g−jγ, so ∑j≥1jdim⁡g−jγ=1. Hence g−jγ=0 for every j≥2. Applying the same argument to the root −γ gives gjγ=0 for every j≥2; in particular 2γ is not a root.

3.1step 2.1algebra

The two integrality statements say c=m/2 for some integer m and 4/m∈Z, so m divides 4 and c∈{±12,±1,±2}.

4.1step 3.1step 2.2algebra∎

Now c≠2 and c≠−2, since 2α and −2α=2(−α) are not roots by step 2.2; and c≠12,−12, since then 2β=±α would be twice the root β, again contradicting step 2.2. Hence c=±1.

DefinitionDefinition: Literature-sourcedProof: Not applicableaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Root reflection defined by a coroot

Definition

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let α be a root of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with respect to a Cartan subalgebra h (Root and root space) and let hα∈h be its coroot (Coroot of a Lie-algebra root). The root reflection defined by α is the linear map

sα:h∗⟶h∗,sα(λ)=λ−λ(hα)α.

It is linear and involutive: sα(α)=α−2α=−α because α(hα)=2, and sα fixes every λ with λ(hα)=0. In particular sα is an automorphism of the vector space h∗ with sα2=id⁡, since sα(λ)(hα)=−λ(hα).

TheoremStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Root reflections preserve the root set

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let h be a Cartan subalgebra of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with root set Φ (Root and root space). For roots α,β∈Φ, the reflected functional sα(β) (Root reflection defined by a coroot) is again a root.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, such g,h and roots α,β.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it licenses the root-string, coroot, and reflection facts in [L1] and [L2].

[L1]

The set {k∈Z:gβ+kα≠0} of indices k with β+kα a root or zero is a nonempty interval {−p,…,q} of consecutive integers with p−q=β(hα) (The root-string property).

[L2]

The reflection is sα(λ)=λ−λ(hα)α, and β(hα)∈Z (Root reflection defined by a coroot, Cartan integers are integers, Coroot of a Lie-algebra root).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1A1L1L2

By [L1] applied to the pair (α,β) there are integers p,q≥0 with p−q=β(hα) and such that β+kα∈Φ∪{0} for every k with −p≤k≤q.

2.1L1L2step 1.1algebra

By [L2] we may rewrite sα(β)=β−β(hα)α=β+(q−p)α, and the index k=q−p satisfies −p≤q−p≤q because p,q≥0. Hence sα(β)=β+kα with −p≤k≤q, so sα(β)∈Φ∪{0} by step 1.1.

3.1step 2.1algebra∎

Finally sα(β)≠0: if β+(q−p)α=0 then β is a scalar multiple of α, so sα(β)=0 would mean β=β(hα)α; but then β and α are proportional roots and the reflection of a nonzero functional is nonzero because sα is an involutive linear automorphism of h∗ (Root reflection defined by a coroot) with sα(α)=−α≠0. Hence sα(β)∈Φ, as claimed.

PropositionStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Root reflections are induced by inner automorphisms

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let α be a root of the finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with respect to a Cartan subalgebra h (Root and root space), let eα,fα,hα be the triple of The root sl_2 triple, and let G be a connected simply connected real Lie group with Lie algebra g. Then

τα:=Ad⁡exp⁡G(eα)Ad⁡exp⁡G(−fα)Ad⁡exp⁡G(eα)

is an inner automorphism of g with τα(h)=h, τα(hα)=−hα, τα(x)=x for x∈ker⁡α, and τα(gβ)=gsα(β) for every root β; thus τα induces the reflection sα of Root reflection defined by a coroot on the root system.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, such g,h, a root α, the triple (eα,fα,hα), and a connected simply connected group G with Lie algebra g.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it implies the countable choice used by [L3] and [L4] through The Axiom of Countable Choice (ACω).

[L1]

The triple satisfies [eα,fα]=hα, [hα,eα]=2eα, [hα,fα]=−2fα, and α(hα)=2 (The root sl_2 triple, Coroot of a Lie-algebra root).

[L2]

The root spaces are the eigenspaces of ad⁡h, [gγ,gδ]⊆gγ+δ, and h=g0=Cg(h) is a maximal toral subalgebra, in particular abelian (Root and root space, Brackets of root spaces, Root-space decomposition, Cartan subalgebras are exactly maximal toral subalgebras, Toral and maximal toral subalgebras).

[L3]

Under countable choice, a connected simply connected real Lie group G with Lie algebra g exists (Lie's third fundamental theorem, The Axiom of Countable Choice (ACω)).

[L4]

Under countable choice, Ad⁡:G→GL⁡(g) is a smooth homomorphism with Ad⁡gh=Ad⁡gAd⁡h, Ad⁡e=I, values in the automorphisms of g, and Ad⁡exp⁡GX=ead⁡X, where etB denotes the unique solution of E′=B∘E, E(0)=I; moreover d(Ad⁡)eX=ad⁡X (Adjoint exponential identity, The differential of Ad is ad, Adjoint is a smooth Lie-group representation, Conjugation and the adjoint representation of a Lie group, The Axiom of Countable Choice (ACω)).

[L5]

Linear initial-value problems have unique solutions (Linear matrix ODEs have unique global solutions on a fixed interval).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1L4L5algebra

First, a vanishing criterion: if X,x∈g satisfy [X,x]=0, then Ad⁡exp⁡GX(x)=x. Indeed the curve t↦Ad⁡exp⁡G(tX) is a homomorphism in t with derivative satisfying U′(t)=ad⁡X∘U(t), by [L4] and the chain rule, and U(0)=I; hence u(t)=U(t)x solves u′=ad⁡Xu with u(0)=x, and so does the constant curve x because [X,x]=0. Uniqueness [L5] gives Ad⁡exp⁡GX(x)=x.

1.2L4L5algebra

Similarly, if ad⁡X is nilpotent and (ad⁡X)n=0, then Ad⁡exp⁡GX=ead⁡X=∑k<n(ad⁡X)kk!. Indeed the polynomial curve E(t)=∑k<ntk(ad⁡X)kk! satisfies E′(t)=ad⁡X∘E(t) and E(0)=I by termwise differentiation. Uniqueness [L5] therefore identifies it with etad⁡X, and setting t=1 gives the displayed formula.

1.3L4algebra

τα is an inner automorphism: by [L4] each factor Ad⁡exp⁡G(±eα), Ad⁡exp⁡G(−fα) is an automorphism of g, and Ad⁡ is multiplicative, so τα=Ad⁡g for g=exp⁡G(eα)exp⁡G(−fα)exp⁡G(eα)∈G.

2.1L1L2step 1.1algebra

If x∈ker⁡α⊆h, then [eα,x]=α(x)eα=0 and [fα,x]=−α(x)fα=0 by [L2], so step 1.1 applied to X=eα,−fα gives τα(x)=x.

2.2L1L5step 1.2algebra

The operator ad⁡eα is nilpotent on Chα⊕Ceα: indeed [eα,hα]=−2eα and [eα,eα]=0 by [L1]; likewise ad⁡−fα is nilpotent on Chα⊕Cfα. Using step 1.2 we compute Ad⁡exp⁡G(eα)(hα)=hα−2eα, then Ad⁡exp⁡G(−fα)(hα−2eα)=−hα−2eα from [−fα,hα]=−2fα and [−fα,eα]=hα, and finally Ad⁡exp⁡G(eα)(−hα−2eα)=−hα; hence τα(hα)=−hα.

3.1A1L1L2step 2.1step 2.2algebra∎

Consequently τα preserves h=ker⁡α⊕Chα: it fixes ker⁡α pointwise by step 2.1 and negates hα by step 2.2. For a root β and x∈gβ, the element τα(x) satisfies [H,τα(x)]=τα([τα−1(H),x])=β(τα−1(H))τα(x) for H∈h; since τα−1∣h=τα∣h is the identity on ker⁡α and negation on hα, the functional H↦β(τα−1(H)) agrees with β on ker⁡α and takes the value −β(hα) at hα, hence equals β−β(hα)α=sα(β) because α(hα)=2 and α vanishes on ker⁡α. Therefore τα(gβ)⊆gsα(β), and since τα is an automorphism and sα is an involution, dimensions agree and equality holds; the Axiom of Choice was used only through [L3] and [L4], that is, through [A1].

TheoremStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Roots of a complex semisimple Lie algebra form a reduced crystallographic root system

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let h be a Cartan subalgebra of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g, with root set Φ=Φ(g,h) (Root and root space) and Cartan integers ⟨β,α∨⟩=β(hα) (Cartan integers are integers). Then:

(i) Φ is finite and g=h⊕⨁α∈Φgα with dim⁡gα=1; (ii) Φ spans h∗, and the common kernel {H∈h:α(H)=0 for all α∈Φ} is zero; (iii) Φ is reduced and central: if α,cα∈Φ for a scalar c, then c=±1, and −α∈Φ whenever α∈Φ; (iv) sα(β)∈Φ for all α,β∈Φ, for the reflections sα of Root reflection defined by a coroot; (v) ⟨β,α∨⟩=β(hα)∈Z for all α,β∈Φ.

Put hR=span⁡R{hα:α∈Φ} and E=span⁡RΦ. Then h=hR⊕ihR, restriction identifies E with the real dual of hR, and the Killing form induces a positive-definite inner product on E for which the displayed maps sα are orthogonal reflections. Consequently Φ⊂E is a reduced crystallographic root system. Under the Killing-form identification E≃hR, its Euclidean coroot 2α/(α,α) corresponds to the Lie-algebra coroot hα.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, such g and h, and the root set Φ.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it is inherited through [L1] and [L6].

[L1]

Φ is finite and g=h⊕⨁α∈Φgα is a direct sum of eigenspaces, with dim⁡gα=1 for each root (Root-space decomposition, Root and root space, Root spaces of a complex semisimple Lie algebra are one-dimensional).

[L2]

If α,cα∈Φ then c=±1; in particular the scalar multiples of a root that are roots are ±α (The only scalar multiples of a root that are roots are plus or minus the root).

[L3]

sα(β)∈Φ for all roots α,β (Root reflections preserve the root set, Root reflection defined by a coroot).

[L4]

β(hα)∈Z for all roots α,β (Cartan integers are integers, Coroot of a Lie-algebra root).

[L5]

−α∈Φ whenever α∈Φ, and gα pairs nondegenerately with g−α under the Killing form (Opposite root spaces pair nondegenerately).

[L7]

The restriction of the Killing form to h is nondegenerate, so every root α has a unique Killing-dual vector Hα with B(Hα,H)=α(H); moreover hα=2Hα/α(Hα) (Orthogonality of root spaces and nondegeneracy on the Cartan subalgebra, Killing-dual vector of a root, Coroot of a Lie-algebra root).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1L1L2L3L4L5

Properties (i) and (v) are [L1] and [L4]; property (iii) is [L2] together with [L5], which also shows −α∈Φ; and (iv) is [L3].

1.2L1L6algebra

For (ii): if H∈h has α(H)=0 for every α∈Φ, then [H,gα]=α(H)gα=0 for every root and [H,h]=0 because h is abelian; by the direct sum of [L1] this gives [H,g]=0, so H is central and H=0 by [L6]. Hence the common kernel is zero, and therefore Φ spans h∗: a finite set of functionals spans the dual space exactly when no nonzero vector is annihilated by all of them, applied to the dual pairing between h and h∗.

2.1L4L7step 1.2algebra

Let hR=span⁡R{hα:α∈Φ}. The coroots span h over C: by step 1.2 the roots span h∗, their Killing-duals therefore span h, and [L7] says that each Hα is a nonzero complex multiple of hα. For H∈hR every root value β(H) is real, because it is a real linear combination of the integers β(hα) from [L4]. If also H∈ihR, every β(H) is both real and purely imaginary, hence zero; step 1.2 gives H=0. The complex spanning and this zero intersection prove h=hR⊕ihR as real vector spaces.

3.1L1L7step 1.2step 2.1algebra

For H,K∈hR, the root-space decomposition and one-dimensionality in [L1] give B(H,K)=tr⁡(ad⁡Had⁡K)=∑β∈Φβ(H)β(K)∈R. Thus B(H,H)=∑β∈Φβ(H)2≥0, and equality forces every β(H)=0, hence H=0 by step 1.2. Therefore B∣hR is positive definite. In particular B(hα,hα)=4/α(Hα)>0, so Hα is a positive real multiple of hα. It follows that the Killing-dual map sends E=span⁡RΦ isomorphically onto hR. Transporting B across that map defines a positive-definite inner product on E.

4.1A1L1L2L3L4L7step 3.1algebra∎

For the inner product of step 3.1, 2(β,α)/(α,α)=2B(Hβ,Hα)/B(Hα,Hα)=β(hα). Hence the map β↦β−β(hα)α of [L3] is precisely the orthogonal reflection in α⊥, and the Euclidean coroot maps to hα. Together with finiteness and spanning by the definition of E, [L2] gives reducedness, [L3] reflection stability, and [L4] crystallographic integrality. Thus Φ⊂E satisfies every reduced crystallographic root-system axiom, not merely properties (i)–(v). The Axiom of Choice is inherited through [L1], [L6], and [L7].

PropositionStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Dimension formula from roots

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let h be a Cartan subalgebra of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with root set Φ (Root and root space). Then dim⁡g=dim⁡h+∣Φ∣. Moreover all Cartan subalgebras of g have the same dimension, so the right-hand side is independent of the chosen Cartan subalgebra, and this common dimension is the quantity rank⁡g of Regular element and rank.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice and such g and h, with root set Φ.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice and supplies the countable choice (The Axiom of Countable Choice (ACω)) used in [L3].

[L1]

g=h⊕⨁α∈Φgα is a direct sum with Φ finite and dim⁡gα=1 for every root (Root-space decomposition, Roots of a complex semisimple Lie algebra form a reduced crystallographic root system, Root and root space).

[L2]

Any two Cartan subalgebras of g are conjugate, hence of the same dimension (Conjugacy of Cartan subalgebras).

[L3]

Under countable choice, g viewed as a real Lie algebra integrates to a connected Lie group; its adjoint representation is smooth with differential ad⁡, and a smooth submersion is open (Lie's third fundamental theorem, Adjoint is a smooth Lie-group representation, The differential of Ad is ad, Every submersion is an open map).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1L1algebra

By [L1] the vector space g is the direct sum of h and one one-dimensional space for each of the ∣Φ∣ roots; dimensions are additive over direct sums, so dim⁡g=dim⁡h+∣Φ∣.

1.2L1algebra

Let h∘ be the complement in h of the finitely many root hyperplanes ker⁡α. A finite union of proper linear subspaces cannot cover a complex vector space, so h∘ is nonempty (and equals {0} when g=0). For H∈h∘, [L1] gives gH=ker⁡(ad⁡H)=h, because ad⁡H acts by the nonzero scalar α(H) on every gα.

2.1A1L1L3step 1.2algebra

Let G be the connected real Lie group supplied by [L3] for the underlying real Lie algebra of g, and define F:G×h∘⟶g by F(g,H)=Ad⁡gH. At (e,H) its differential is (Y,K)↦[Y,H]+K by [L3]. The root decomposition [L1] and the inequalities α(H)≠0 give [g,H]=⨁α∈Φgα, so this differential is onto. Translation in G and composition with Ad⁡g show the same at every (g,H); hence F is a submersion. By [L3] its image U is a nonempty open subset of g, and every point of U has centralizer dimension dim⁡h by step 1.2 and conjugation invariance.

3.1L3step 2.1algebra

Put r=rank⁡g and n=dim⁡g. In a fixed basis the entries of ad⁡x depend linearly on x. Choose x0 with dim⁡ker⁡(ad⁡x0)=r and an (n−r)×(n−r) minor nonzero at x0. The nonvanishing set of this minor is a nonempty dense open subset R of the complex vector space g; at every point of R, the adjoint map has rank at least n−r, and maximality of n−r forces kernel dimension exactly r. Thus R consists of regular elements. Since R is dense and U from step 2.1 is nonempty open, choose x∈R∩U. Then r=dim⁡gx=dim⁡h.

4.1L2step 1.1step 3.1∎

By [L2], all Cartan subalgebras have this same dimension; step 3.1 identifies it with rank⁡g. Substituting in step 1.1 yields dim⁡g=rank⁡g+∣Φ∣, including the zero algebra.

PropositionStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

The center is the common kernel of the roots inside the Cartan subalgebra

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let h be a Cartan subalgebra of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g, with root set Φ (Root and root space). Then {H∈h:α(H)=0 for all α∈Φ}=Z(g)∩h=0. In particular the roots span h∗, and the description of the zero common-root-kernel as the center is an equality inside h.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice and such g and h.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it licenses the structural suppliers [L1] and [L2].

[L1]

g=h⊕⨁α∈Φgα is a direct sum over the root spaces (Root-space decomposition, Roots of a complex semisimple Lie algebra form a reduced crystallographic root system, Root and root space).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1A1L1L2L3algebra

If H∈h has α(H)=0 for every α∈Φ, then [H,gα]=α(H)gα=0 for every root, and [H,h]=0 by [L2]; by [L1] [H,g]=0, so H∈Z(g) and H=0 by [L3].

2.1L1step 1.1algebra∎

Conversely every central element of h is annihilated by all roots, since α(H)=0 is the eigenvalue of ad⁡H on gα and ad⁡H=0 for central H. Hence the common kernel equals Z(g)∩h=0; and because no nonzero H annihilates all roots, the finite set Φ spans h∗.

DefinitionDefinition: Literature-sourcedProof: Not applicableaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Regular root hyperplanes

Definition

Assume the Axiom of Choice (The Axiom of Choice). Let h be a Cartan subalgebra of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with finite root set Φ (Root and root space, Roots of a complex semisimple Lie algebra form a reduced crystallographic root system). For each root α the root hyperplane is ker⁡α={H∈h:α(H)=0}, a proper subspace of h because α≠0. The regular set of h is the complement

hreg={H∈h:α(H)≠0 for every α∈Φ}=h∖⋃α∈Φker⁡α.

It is the complement in h of a finite union of hyperplanes. Elements of hreg are called regular elements of h.

PropositionStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Centralizer dimension from vanishing roots

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice. Let h be a Cartan subalgebra of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with root set Φ (Root and root space). For H∈h, gH=ker⁡(ad⁡H)=h⊕⨁α∈Φα(H)=0gα, and consequently dim⁡gH=dim⁡h+#{α∈Φ:α(H)=0}. In particular gH=h exactly for the regular elements H∈hreg of Regular root hyperplanes.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice, such g,h and an element H∈h.

[A1]

The Axiom of Choice is The Axiom of Choice; it licenses [L1] and the regular-set definition [L2].

[L1]

g=h⊕⨁α∈Φgα is a direct sum, each gα is the eigenspace of ad⁡h with eigenvalue α, and gα is one-dimensional (Root-space decomposition, Root and root space, Root spaces of a complex semisimple Lie algebra are one-dimensional).

[L2]

hreg={H∈h:α(H)≠0 for all α∈Φ} (Regular root hyperplanes).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1A1L1algebra

Write x=H0+∑α∈Φxα with H0∈h and xα∈gα, using the direct sum [L1]. Then ad⁡H(x)=∑αα(H)xα because h is abelian, and this vanishes exactly when α(H)xα=0 for every root.

2.1L1L2step 1.1algebra∎

Hence ker⁡(ad⁡H)=h⊕⨁α(H)=0gα and its dimension is dim⁡h plus the number of roots vanishing at H, by the direct sum of [L1]. By [L2] that number is zero exactly when H∈hreg, in which case gH=h.

CorollaryStatement: Literature-sourcedProof: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Regular elements form a dense Zariski-open subset of a Cartan subalgebra

Statement

Assume the Axiom of Choice (The Axiom of Choice). Let h be a Cartan subalgebra of a finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra g with root set Φ (Root and root space). Then the regular set hreg of Regular root hyperplanes is nonempty and is a dense Zariski-open subset of h; it consists exactly of the elements H∈h whose centralizer in g equals h, and these are the elements of h whose centralizer has minimal dimension among elements of h.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The Axiom of Choice; such g,h and its finite root set Φ.

[L1]

hreg is the complement in h of the finite union of the root hyperplanes ker⁡α, and dim⁡gH=dim⁡h+#{α:α(H)=0} for H∈h (Regular root hyperplanes, Centralizer dimension from vanishing roots).

Proof

technique · direct
1.1L1algebra

Each α is a nonzero functional, so each ker⁡α is a proper subspace, and by [L1] hreg is the complement of finitely many proper subspaces. Induct on the number k of proper subspaces H1,…,Hk. For k=0 the assertion is immediate. For k>0, choose by induction u∉⋃i<kHi and choose v∉Hk. For each i<k the line u+tv meets Hi for at most one scalar t, since two such parameters would imply first v∈Hi and then u∈Hi; the same line meets Hk for at most one t, since two parameters would imply v∈Hk. Because C is infinite, some t avoids all k exceptional values. Thus a finite union of proper subspaces cannot cover h, and hreg≠∅.

2.1L1step 1.1algebra

Being the complement of a finite union of zero sets of nonzero linear functionals, hreg is Zariski-open. It is the principal open set defined by the nonzero polynomial ∏α∈Φα (with empty product 1); a nonempty principal open subset of an affine space is dense because its coordinate ring is an integral domain.

3.1L1step 1.1step 2.1algebra∎

By [L1] an element H has gH=h exactly when no root vanishes at H, that is, exactly for H∈hreg; all other elements have strictly larger centralizer dimension. Hence the regular set is the set of elements of h with minimal centralizer dimension, and it is nonempty, Zariski-open and dense.

False statementConstruction: Literature-sourcedVerification: AI-adaptedjudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

A Cartan subalgebra of an arbitrary Lie algebra means a maximal abelian subalgebra

Statement

In an arbitrary Lie algebra, "Cartan subalgebra" means a maximal abelian subalgebra, the two notions being interchangeable.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The two-dimensional complex Lie algebra g=CX⊕CY with [X,Y]=Y, which is a Lie algebra because the bracket is alternating and, on a basis with a single nonzero product, all Jacobi identities reduce to [X,[X,Y]]+[X,[Y,X]]=0 and its alternating variants. A Cartan subalgebra is nilpotent and equal to its normalizer (Cartan subalgebra, Normalizer of a Lie subalgebra), and nilpotence for the one-dimensional subalgebra CX is the vanishing of the lower central series (Lower central series and nilpotent Lie algebras, Lie algebras over a field).

Refutation

technique · explicit witness
1.1givenalgebra

The subalgebra CY is maximal abelian: it is one-dimensional, hence abelian, and g itself is not abelian, so no abelian subalgebra strictly contains it.

1.2givenalgebra

But CY is not a Cartan subalgebra: Ng(CY)={aX+bY:[aX+bY,Y]∈CY} equals g, because [X,Y]=Y∈CY and [Y,Y]=0; a Cartan subalgebra would have to equal its normalizer, and CY≠g.

2.1givenstep 1.1step 1.2algebra∎

The definition is nevertheless not vacuous: CX is a Cartan subalgebra of g, since [aX+bY,X]=−bY∈CX forces b=0, so Ng(CX)=CX, and CX is abelian and therefore nilpotent. Thus a maximal abelian subalgebra of an arbitrary Lie algebra need not be a Cartan subalgebra, and the proposed identification fails.

False statementConstruction: Literature-sourcedVerification: AI-adaptedjudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Every element of a complex semisimple Lie algebra is semisimple

Statement

Every element of a complex semisimple Lie algebra is semisimple.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: An element x of a Lie algebra is called semisimple when its adjoint operator ad⁡x is a semisimple endomorphism as defined in Semisimple endomorphisms as endomorphisms diagonalisable over an algebraic closure, and nilpotent endomorphisms; the same convention underlies Regular element and rank. In sl2(C)=Ch⊕Ce⊕Cf of The special linear Lie algebra sl_2 the brackets are [h,e]=2e, [h,f]=−2f, [e,f]=h.

[L1]

The Killing form of sl2(C) is nondegenerate, and a finite-dimensional characteristic-zero Lie algebra is semisimple exactly when its Killing form is nondegenerate (Killing form of sl_2, Cartan's semisimplicity criterion).

Refutation

technique · explicit witness
1.1givenL1

The element e=(0100) is nonzero, and [L1] shows that sl2(C) is a complex semisimple Lie algebra.

1.2givenalgebra

Its adjoint operator is nilpotent and nonzero: on the basis (h,e,f) one has ad⁡e(h)=−2e, ad⁡e(e)=0 and ad⁡e(f)=h, so ad⁡e3=0 while ad⁡e≠0.

2.1givenstep 1.1step 1.2algebra∎

A nonzero nilpotent endomorphism is not semisimple: over C its only eigenvalue is 0, so if it were diagonalisable it would be the zero operator; hence ad⁡e is not semisimple and the element e is not semisimple. This refutes the statement that every element is semisimple.

False statementConstruction: Literature-sourcedVerification: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Root spaces can have arbitrary dimension in a complex semisimple Lie algebra

Statement

Assume AC (The Axiom of Choice). The root spaces of a complex semisimple Lie algebra relative to a Cartan subalgebra can have arbitrary dimension, so no uniform bound on dim⁡gα holds.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: AC; root spaces are the eigenspaces gα={x:[H,x]=α(H)x for all H∈h} of Root and root space, and for a root α the theorem Root spaces of a complex semisimple Lie algebra are one-dimensional asserts dim⁡gα=1. In sl2(C)=Ch⊕Ce⊕Cf (The special linear Lie algebra sl_2) the Cartan subalgebra Ch has a root α with α(h)=2, and the root triple of The root sl_2 triple realizes the roots ±α (Coroot of a Lie-algebra root).

Refutation

technique · explicit witness
1.1givenalgebra

Take g=sl2(C) with the Cartan subalgebra h=Ch. Its roots are the nonzero functionals α with gα≠0; since [h,e]=2e and [h,f]=−2f, the functional α with α(h)=2 is a root with gα=Ce and −α is a root with g−α=Cf.

2.1givenstep 1.1

Both root spaces are one-dimensional, so in this example the dimension is 1 and not, say, 2.

3.1step 2.1algebra∎

More generally, the cited theorem gives dim⁡gα=1 for every root of every finite-dimensional complex semisimple Lie algebra, so no root space has dimension 2 or any other value different from 1. The statement that root spaces can have arbitrary dimension is therefore false.

False statementConstruction: Literature-sourcedVerification: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

If alpha and beta are roots then alpha plus beta is always a root

Statement

Assume AC (The Axiom of Choice). If α and β are roots of a complex semisimple Lie algebra relative to a Cartan subalgebra, then α+β is again a root.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: AC; roots are nonzero functionals with gα≠0 (Root and root space), and [gα,gβ]⊆gα+β with gγ=0 for γ neither a root nor 0 (Brackets of root spaces). The set of indices k with β+kα∈Φ∪{0} is a nonempty interval {−p,…,q} (The root-string property). For every root α, the opposite −α is a root (Opposite root spaces pair nondegenerately), and the only scalar multiples of α that are roots are ±α (The only scalar multiples of a root that are roots are plus or minus the root).

Refutation

technique · explicit witness
1.1givenalgebra

Let α be any root and put β=−α, which is a root because the opposite root space is nonzero. Then α+β=0, and 0 is not a root by definition, since a root is required to be nonzero.

2.1givenstep 1.1algebra

A second, nontrivial failure occurs with β=α: then α+β=2α, and 2α is not a root because the only scalar multiples of the root α that are roots are ±α.

3.1givenstep 1.1step 2.1algebra∎

Neither failure contradicts the bracket inclusion of the given facts, which only asserts [gα,gβ]⊆gα+β and therefore says that the bracket vanishes when α+β is not a root or 0. Hence the claim that α+β is always a root is false.

False statementConstruction: Literature-sourcedVerification: AI-adaptedaudited 2026-09-22Open item page →

All integer multiples of a root are roots

Statement

Assume AC (The Axiom of Choice). If α is a root of a complex semisimple Lie algebra, then every integer multiple kα with k∈Z is again a root.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: AC; for a root α the only scalar multiples of α that are roots are ±α, so in particular 2α is not a root (The only scalar multiples of a root that are roots are plus or minus the root); the root-string property describes the roots of the form β+kα (The root-string property). The root spaces are the eigenspaces of Root and root space, and sl2(C)=Ch⊕Ce⊕Cf is the Lie algebra of The special linear Lie algebra sl_2.

Refutation

technique · explicit witness
1.1givenalgebra

Take g=sl2(C) with Cartan subalgebra Ch and the root α determined by α(h)=2. Then the root spaces are gα=Ce and g−α=Cf, and there are no other roots.

2.1givenstep 1.1algebra

The integer multiple 2α is not a root: g2α would be the eigenspace of ad⁡h with eigenvalue 4, whereas the eigenvalues of ad⁡h on sl2(C) are 2,0,−2; alternatively 2α is a scalar multiple of the root α other than ±α.

3.1givenstep 1.1step 2.1algebra∎

Likewise kα is not a root for every integer k with ∣k∣≥2, while 0=0⋅α is not a root either because roots are nonzero by definition. Hence not all integer multiples of a root are roots, and the statement is false.

False statementConstruction: Literature-sourcedVerification: AI-adaptedjudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

The root-space decomposition classifies real semisimple Lie algebras with no extra data

Statement

The root-space decomposition of the complexification of a real semisimple Lie algebra determines that real Lie algebra up to isomorphism, with no further data.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The complexification of a real Lie algebra g0 is g0⊗RC with the complex-bilinear bracket; an element x is nilpotent when ad⁡x is a nilpotent endomorphism, as in Semisimple endomorphisms as endomorphisms diagonalisable over an algebraic closure, and nilpotent endomorphisms with ad⁡x(y)=[x,y] from Derivations of Lie algebras; a real Lie algebra is semisimple when its radical vanishes (Simple, semisimple, and reductive Lie algebras); and sl2(C) is the algebra of The special linear Lie algebra sl_2, whose root-space decomposition over the Cartan subalgebra Ch is the one supplied by Root-space decomposition.

[L1]

In the basis (h,e,f) the Killing form of sl2 satisfies B(h,h)=8, B(e,f)=B(f,e)=4, and all other basis pairings vanish; over a characteristic-zero field, a finite-dimensional Lie algebra is semisimple if and only if its Killing form is nondegenerate (Killing form of sl_2, Cartan's semisimplicity criterion).

Refutation

technique · explicit witness
1.1givenalgebra

Define the two real Lie algebras sl2(R)={A∈M2(R):tr⁡A=0} and su2={A∈M2(C):A∗=−A, tr⁡A=0}, each under the commutator bracket. Both are closed under the bracket and are three-dimensional over R: sl2(R) has basis e,f,h as in the special linear case, while the general element of su2 is (iαβ−β‾−iα) with α∈R, β∈C.

2.1L1step 1.1algebra

Both real algebras are semisimple. For sl2(R), the adjoint matrices in the real basis (h,e,f) give the Killing matrix (800004040) from [L1], whose determinant is nonzero. For su2, use the real basis (ih,e−f,i(e+f)). The same bracket computation gives the diagonal Killing matrix diag⁡(−8,−8,−8) in this basis. Thus both Killing forms are nondegenerate, and [L1] makes both algebras semisimple.

2.2givenstep 1.1algebra

Both complexify to sl2(C). For sl2(R) this is clear from the real basis e,f,h. For su2, the three real matrices (i00−i), (01−10), (0ii0) belong to su2 and are linearly independent over C, so the complex span of su2 is the three-dimensional space of traceless complex matrices. Hence both real algebras have the same complexification and therefore the same root-space decomposition over Ch.

2.3givenstep 1.1algebra

They are not isomorphic: an isomorphism of real Lie algebras preserves nilpotent elements, since it conjugates adjoint operators. The element e=(0100) is a nonzero nilpotent element of sl2(R), because ad⁡e is nilpotent and nonzero. On the other hand su2 has no nonzero nilpotent element: every A∈su2 is normal, hence diagonalisable over C with purely imaginary eigenvalues iθ1,iθ2, and the eigenvalues of ad⁡A on the complexification are the differences i(θj−θk); if all of them vanished then θ1=θ2, so A would be a scalar multiple of the identity and then tr⁡A=0 forces A=0.

3.1givenstep 2.1step 2.2step 2.3algebra∎

Consequently the common complexification and its root-space decomposition do not determine the real semisimple Lie algebra: sl2(R) and su2 are non-isomorphic real semisimple Lie algebras with the same complexification sl2(C), whose root decomposition is that of the previous facts. Real forms therefore require extra data, and the statement is false.

5 · Examples, counterexamples and false statements

ExampleConstruction: Literature-sourcedVerification: AI-adaptedjudge pass (gpt-5.6-terra)audited 2026-09-22Open item page →

Diagonal Cartan subalgebra and roots of sl_n

Example

For n≥2 let sln(C)={X∈Mn(C):tr⁡X=0} be the Lie algebra of traceless complex n×n matrices under the commutator, so that n=2 recovers The special linear Lie algebra sl_2. Let h={diag⁡(x1,…,xn):∑ixi=0} be the diagonal traceless subalgebra, and let εi∈h∗ be the restriction of the coordinate functional H↦xi. Then h is a Cartan subalgebra of sln(C), the roots are the functionals εi−εj with i≠j, and the corresponding root spaces are the lines gεi−εj=CEij, so Φ={εi−εj:i≠j} has n(n−1) elements.

Facts & Assumptions

Given: The integers n≥2, the Lie algebra sln(C) of traceless matrices under the commutator, its diagonal traceless subalgebra h, and the matrix units Eij; root spaces are those of Root and root space, and nilpotence and normalizers are those of Cartan subalgebra and Normalizer of a Lie subalgebra.

[L1]

The Killing form of sln(C) is K(X,Y)=2ntr⁡(XY) and is nondegenerate for n≥2; a finite-dimensional characteristic-zero Lie algebra is semisimple if and only if its Killing form is nondegenerate (Classical simple Lie algebras and their Killing forms, Cartan's semisimplicity criterion).

Verification

technique · direct
1.1L1

By [L1], sln(C) is semisimple.

1.2givenalgebra

h is a Cartan subalgebra: it is abelian, hence nilpotent, and its normalizer is itself. Indeed if X=∑abxabEab satisfies [X,H]∈h for every diagonal traceless H, take H=diag⁡(1,2,…,n)−n+12I, whose diagonal entries are pairwise distinct; then [X,H]=∑ab(hb−ha)xabEab has no off-diagonal component, so (hb−ha)xab=0 and hence xab=0 whenever a≠b. Thus X is diagonal, and being in sln it lies in h.

1.3givenalgebra

For H=diag⁡(x1,…,xn)∈h and a matrix unit Eij one computes [H,Eij]=(xi−xj)Eij; note xi−xj depends only on H, so the functional εi−εj on h is well defined and Eij is a nonzero eigenvector for the eigenvalue (εi−εj)(H).

2.1givenstep 1.1step 1.2step 1.3algebra∎

By steps 1.1 and 1.2, the root-space decomposition of Root-space decomposition applies. Step 1.3 exhibits, for every pair i≠j, the nonzero vector Eij∈gεi−εj; conversely every simultaneous h-eigenvector is a linear combination of those Eij whose indices give that functional, and the functionals εi−εj for distinct ordered pairs are distinct while the diagonal matrices give the zero weight. Hence the roots are exactly the n(n−1) functionals εi−εj, i≠j, with one-dimensional root spaces CEij.

Sources