number theory problem

Lee Cristofano (cristofa@bpsd.k12.pa.us)
Thu, 10 Apr 1997 14:58:35 +0100


hello all. i need some help with a group theory problem for a friend.
here it is:

suppose p is a prime number of the form p = 24k + b.

For which primes p does Mp (where Mp means modulo multiplication group)
contain

1. the square root of negative 1
2. the square root of 2
3. the square root of 3

Examine all eight possible combinations of the existence and
nonexistence of these square roots.

what the hell all this means, i don't know.

no pressure, but an answer by sunday night would be helpful. maybe you
know of someone at Rutgers or Princeton that couls help out?

thanks in advance,

lee