Proof:

Let $ U$ be the open neighborhood of the identity that is contained in $ H$ and $ h \in H$ be arbitrary. Since multiplication by $ h$ is a homeomorphism, the set $ Uh = \{uh / u\in U\}$ is also open and also contained in $ H$. Hence the set

$\displaystyle L = \bigcup_{h\in H} Uh
$

is open and contained in $ H$. Since $ U$ contains the identity element, $ H \subset L$ and we conclude that $ H$ is open. Our job will be over if we can show that $ H$ is closed as well. Let $ x \in \overline{H}$ be arbitrary. Since the neighborhood $ Ux$ of $ x$ contains a point $ y \in H$, there exists $ u \in U$ such that $ y = ux$ which, in view of the fact that $ U \subset H$, implies $ x \in H$. Hence $ \overline{H} = H$. $ \square$

nisha 2012-03-20