On units in orders in 2-by-2 matrices over quaternion algebras with rational center

Abstract

We generalize an algorithm established in earlier work [19] to compute finitely many generators for a subgroup of finite index of a group acting discontinuously on hyperbolic space of dimension 2 and 3, to hyperbolic space of higher dimensions using Clifford algebras. We hence get an algorithm which gives a finite set of generators up to finite index of a discrete subgroup of Vahlen's group, i.e. a group of 2-by-2 matrices with entries in the Clifford algebra satisfying certain conditions. The motivation comes from units in integral group rings and this new algorithm allows to handle unit groups of orders in 2-by-2 matrices over rational quaternion algebras. The rings investigated are part of the so-called exceptional components of a rational group algebra.

A dichotomy for integral group rings via higher modular groups as amalgamated products

“…This result agrees with [29,Lemma 5.3]. There it is shown that SL + (Γ 4 (Z)) is of index four in a group, denoted SL + ( Γ4 (Z)), which is isomorphic to SL 2 (L).…”

“…One of the first papers handling units in 2 × 2 matrix groups over orders in quaternion algebras is [29]. It is shown that it all comes down to studying discrete subgroups of Vahlen groups, which are 2 × 2 matrices with entries in a Clifford algebra.…”