Continuity equation from Stress-Energy tensor

In summary, the conversation discusses the validity of the statement that the partial derivative of the energy momentum tensor with respect to x^beta is equal to 0, and how this conclusion was reached. The energy momentum tensor, T^{ \alpha \beta}, is also mentioned and its computation for any alpha is questioned. The speaker explains that this tensor is for non-interacting dust and its conservation can be derived from Noether's theorem or diffemorphism invariance. They also recommend a book by d'Inverno for further understanding.
  • #1
Jonny_trigonometry
452
0
It is true that [tex] \frac{\partial}{\partial x^\beta} T^{0 \beta} = \gamma^2 c \left( \frac{\partial \rho}{\partial t} + \vec{\nabla} \bullet \left[ \rho \vec{v} \right] \right) = 0 [/tex]

but, how do we arrive at this point?

What is in [tex] T^{ \alpha \beta} [/tex]

and how do we compute it for any alpha? I'm sorry if this is a no brainer. I missed some critical lectures.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
That T you've got there is the energy momentum tensor. In your case, it is the energy momentum tensor for non-interacting dus,

[tex]
T^{\mu\nu} = \rho_{0}\frac{dx^{\mu}}{d\tau}\frac{dx^{\nu}}{d\tau}
[/tex]

.

Why this conservation is true, is another story. In the classical case, it can be derived from Noether's theorem. In the general relativistic case, the conservation is a consequence of something called diffemorphism invariance.

I recommend you to take a look at the book of Inverno about general relativity, chapter 12 ( .1,2,3). There it is all explained :)
 
  • #3
thanks for the reply, but I can't find that book, is Inverno the author?
 
  • #4
haushofer probably means d'Inverno (Introducing Einstein's Relativity)
 

1. What is the continuity equation from Stress-Energy tensor?

The continuity equation from Stress-Energy tensor is a mathematical representation of the conservation of energy and momentum in a physical system. It relates the rate of change of energy and momentum in a given volume to the flow of these quantities in and out of the volume.

2. Why is the continuity equation important in physics?

The continuity equation is important in physics because it helps us understand the behavior of energy and momentum in a physical system. It allows us to predict how these quantities will change over time and how they are affected by different forces and interactions.

3. How is the continuity equation derived?

The continuity equation is derived from the laws of conservation of energy and momentum, which state that these quantities cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed. It is also derived from the fundamental equations of motion, such as Newton's second law and the conservation of mass.

4. What are the applications of the continuity equation?

The continuity equation has many applications in various fields of physics, such as fluid dynamics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics. It is used to study the behavior of fluids, the propagation of electromagnetic waves, and the behavior of particles in quantum systems.

5. Can the continuity equation be generalized to other physical quantities?

Yes, the continuity equation can be generalized to other physical quantities, such as charge, angular momentum, and entropy. These quantities also follow the laws of conservation and can be described using similar mathematical equations.

Similar threads

  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
21
Views
2K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
11
Views
944
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
4
Views
698
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
2
Views
108
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
1
Views
625
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Special and General Relativity
2
Replies
59
Views
3K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
2
Views
867
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
17
Views
2K
Back
Top