Jacobian in change of coordinates

In summary: So, in summary, the Jacobian in the change of coordinates equation for multiple integrals allows us to change the bounds of integration and is the connection between multivariable calculus and linear algebra. This is because a linear transformation allows for a one-to-one mapping between coordinate systems, and the Jacobian can be taken for a multiple integral due to its relationship with volume change under linear and non-linear maps.
  • #1
Simfish
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So in the change of coordinates equation for multiple integrals, we have the Jacobian which allows us to change our bounds of integration.

It's the connection between multivariable calculus and linear algebra.

is this possible since the linear transformation allows a one-to-one-mapping between one coordinate system and the other coordinate system? And is this precisely the reason why we can take the Jacobian of a multiple integral?
 
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  • #2
I don't understand your question, but I will just say that it might be insightful for you to know that if S is a region of R^n and T is a linear map from R^n to R^n, then the volume of T(S) equals the volume of S times the determinant of T (as a matrix). (And also that a linear map sends little cubes to little parallelepipedes)
 
  • #3
Simfishy said:
So in the change of coordinates equation for multiple integrals, we have the Jacobian which allows us to change our bounds of integration.

It's the connection between multivariable calculus and linear algebra.

is this possible since the linear transformation allows a one-to-one-mapping between one coordinate system and the other coordinate system? And is this precisely the reason why we can take the Jacobian of a multiple integral?

hard to see what you are really asking but it is true that linear analysis has a lot to do with Jacobian and Integration. It comes from the realm of Measure theory where you get all those results for Lebesgue integral on R^n and product measures...
 
  • #4
in linear algebra a determinant measures the volume change under a linear map.

in non linear calculus, integrating the (different) determinant functions at different points measures volume change under a non linear map.
 
Last edited:

1. What is the Jacobian in change of coordinates?

The Jacobian in change of coordinates is a mathematical concept used to describe the relationship between two different coordinate systems. It is a matrix of partial derivatives that represents how the variables in one coordinate system change with respect to the variables in another coordinate system.

2. Why is the Jacobian important in change of coordinates?

The Jacobian is important because it allows us to convert between different coordinate systems, which is essential in many fields of science and engineering. It also helps us understand how changes in one variable affect the other variables in a system.

3. How is the Jacobian calculated?

The Jacobian is calculated by taking the partial derivatives of each variable in the original coordinate system with respect to the variables in the new coordinate system. These partial derivatives are then arranged in a matrix, with each row representing a different variable and each column representing a different coordinate.

4. Can the Jacobian be used for non-linear coordinate transformations?

Yes, the Jacobian can be used for non-linear coordinate transformations. In fact, it is especially useful for non-linear transformations because it takes into account the changing rates of the variables in the transformation.

5. What are some applications of the Jacobian in science?

The Jacobian has many applications in science, including in physics, engineering, and computer science. It is commonly used in problems involving change of variables, optimization, and differential equations. It is also essential in areas such as fluid mechanics, electromagnetism, and machine learning.

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