Convert flat space function to curved space function?

In summary, the conversation discusses the process of converting a function defined on a flat space into an equivalent function on curved spaces. The concept of an "equivalent function" is explored, as well as the role of points and metrics in determining the behavior of a function. The Riemann Sphere and Mobius Transformations are mentioned as examples of converting functions between spaces, and the idea that a function is defined on a set of points and is therefore independent of the metric of the space is discussed. The question of how a function can be expressed in terms of the curvature of a space and if this can be converted to a function on flat space coordinates is also raised.
  • #1
friend
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9
Is there a general procedure to convert or transform a function that is defined on a flat space into an equivalent function in curves spaces?
 
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  • #2
What do you mean by "equivalent function" ? Since the points on the curved space will be different from the points in the flat space, unless the curved space is just extrinsically curved or is just a portion of a curved space homeomorphic to the flat space.
 
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  • #3
friend said:
Is there a general procedure to convert or transform a function that is defined on a flat space into an equivalent function in curves spaces?

How about the Riemann Sphere and Mobius Transformations...

http://www.sciencemag.org/sciext/vis2007/show/"

The movie in slide #8 of the link provides an excellent visual representation.
 
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  • #4
slider142 said:
What do you mean by "equivalent function" ? Since the points on the curved space will be different from the points in the flat space, unless the curved space is just extrinsically curved or is just a portion of a curved space homeomorphic to the flat space.

I guess that's my question. How does a point know if it is in flat space or curved space? And therefore, how does a function know if it is in flat or curved space? Can a function on curved space be expressed in terms of the curvature of that space at each point? And can this be converted to some function on flat space coordinates?
 
  • #5
Your function doesn't care about the metric of the space, be it flat or curved. As I understand it, the function is defined on the set of points making up the space,and is therefore unaffected by a change of the metric.
 
  • #6
Pere Callahan said:
Your function doesn't care about the metric of the space, be it flat or curved. As I understand it, the function is defined on the set of points making up the space,and is therefore unaffected by a change of the metric.

What if the function is the metric? I suppose if the function depends on two points, or is it the distance between two points, then it depends on the curvature of the space. Is this right? What about differential changes in the function? That differential depends on the metric, right? So a Taylor expansion used to represent the function WOULD depend on the metric. I guess the question still remains for me. Thanks.
 

1. What is the difference between flat and curved space functions?

The main difference between flat and curved space functions is the underlying geometry of the space in which they are defined. Flat space functions are defined on a flat, Euclidean geometry, while curved space functions are defined on a curved space, such as a sphere or a hyperbolic surface. This affects the mathematical properties of the functions and how they behave.

2. How do you convert a flat space function to a curved space function?

To convert a flat space function to a curved space function, you need to take into account the curvature of the space in which the function is defined. This can be done through a process called coordinate transformation, where the coordinates of the function are adjusted to fit the curvature of the space. This will result in a new function that is defined on the curved space.

3. What are the applications of converting flat space functions to curved space functions?

Converting flat space functions to curved space functions is necessary in many fields of science, such as physics, astronomy, and mathematics. It allows for a more accurate description of physical phenomena that occur in curved spaces, such as the motion of planets in space or the bending of light in a gravitational field.

4. Is it possible to convert any flat space function to a curved space function?

No, it is not always possible to convert a flat space function to a curved space function. This depends on the mathematical properties of the function and the curvature of the space in which it is defined. Some functions may not have a meaningful representation in a curved space, while others may require complex transformations to be converted.

5. Are there any limitations to converting flat space functions to curved space functions?

Yes, there are some limitations to converting flat space functions to curved space functions. For example, the transformation may result in a more complex function that is difficult to work with mathematically. Additionally, the conversion may also introduce errors or approximations, depending on the accuracy of the transformation used.

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