Closed subgroup theorem
A closed subgroup of a Lie group is an embedded Lie subgroup, and the quotient G/H is a smooth manifold.
Let be a Lie group and let be a closed subgroup.
Theorem (Closed Subgroup Theorem).
- There is a unique smooth manifold structure on making it a Lie group such that the inclusion is a smooth injective immersion and a homeomorphism onto its image. In particular, is an embedded Lie subgroup of .
- The Lie algebra of is the subalgebra matching the description in the Lie algebra of a subgroup lemma.
- The coset space admits a unique smooth manifold structure such that the projection is a smooth submersion, making into a basic example of a homogeneous space.
Remarks
Context. This theorem is the bridge between “topological subgroup” and “geometric submanifold.” It is also what makes quotients by closed normal subgroups into Lie groups (compare quotient Lie groups).