On finite groups of p-local rank one and a conjecture of Robinson

We use the classification of finite simple groups to verify a conjecture of Robinson for finite groups G where G/Op(G) has trivial intersection Sylow p-subgroups. Groups of this type are said to have p-local rank one, and it is hoped that this invariant will eventually form the basis for inductive arguments, providing reductions for the conjecture, or even a proof using the results presented here as a base. A positive outcome for Robinson's conjecture would imply Alperin's weight conjecture.;It is shown that in proving Robinson's conjecture it suffices to demonstrate only that it holds for finite groups in which Op(G) is both cyclic and central.;Part of the proof of the former result is used to complete the verification of Dade's inductive conjecture for the Ree groups of type G2.;.