Generalized torsion elements in infinite groups

A group element is called generalized torsion if a finite product of its conjugates is equal to the identity. We show that in a finitely generated abelian-by-finite group, an element is generalized torsion if and only if its image in the abelianization is torsion. We also prove a quantitative version with sharp bounds to the generalized exponent of these groups. In particular, we provide many examples of finitely presentable torsion-free groups in which all elements are generalized torsion. We also discuss positive generalized identities in abelian-by-finite groups and related classes.

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Publication Details

Journal
Proceedings of the American Mathematical Society
Published
2025-10-23
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1090/proc/17454
Primary Topic
Geometric and Algebraic Topology
Type
article
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article

Generalized torsion elements in infinite groups

Raimundo Bastos, Luís Mendonça
Proceedings of the American Mathematical Society
Geometric and Algebraic Topology
article

Generalized torsion elements in infinite groups

Raimundo Bastos, Luís Mendonça
article en

Abstract

A group element is called generalized torsion if a finite product of its conjugates is equal to the identity. We show that in a finitely generated abelian-by-finite group, an element is generalized torsion if and only if its image in the abelianization is torsion. We also prove a quantitative version with sharp bounds to the generalized exponent of these groups. In particular, we provide many examples of finitely presentable torsion-free groups in which all elements are generalized torsion. We also discuss positive generalized identities in abelian-by-finite groups and related classes.

Proceedings of the American Mathematical Society
Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (BR), Universidade de Brasília (BR)
Openalex Percentile: Top 64%
Geometric and Algebraic Topology
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