Can a Killing Vector Field Prove v^\mu \nabla_\alpha R=0?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving that for a Killing vector field \( v^\mu \), the equation \( v^\mu \nabla_\mu R = 0 \) holds true. Key equations referenced include the Riemann tensor relationship \( \nabla_\mu \nabla_\nu v^\beta = R{^\beta_{\mu \nu \alpha}} v^\alpha \) and the second Bianchi identity. The Killing equation, which states \( \nabla_\mu v_\nu + \nabla_\nu v_\mu = 0 \), is crucial for simplifying expressions during the proof. The participants clarify the correct formulation of the equation and provide guidance on utilizing normal coordinates and the properties of the Riemann tensor.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Killing vector fields in differential geometry
  • Familiarity with the Riemann curvature tensor and its properties
  • Knowledge of covariant derivatives and their applications
  • Proficiency in using the second Bianchi identity
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of Killing vector fields in general relativity
  • Learn about the Riemann curvature tensor and its implications in differential geometry
  • Explore the second Bianchi identity and its applications in tensor calculus
  • Investigate normal coordinates and their role in simplifying tensor equations
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This discussion is beneficial for graduate students in mathematics or physics, particularly those focusing on general relativity, differential geometry, and tensor analysis.

loops496
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Homework Statement


Suppose v^\mu is a Killing Vector field, the prove that:
v^\mu \nabla_\alpha R=0

Homework Equations


1) \nabla_\mu \nabla_\nu v^\beta = R{^\beta_{\mu \nu \alpha}} v^\alpha
2) The second Bianchi Identity.
3) If v^\mu is Killing the it satisfies then Killing equation, viz. \nabla_\mu v_\nu - \nabla_\nu v_\mu=0

The Attempt at a Solution


I know I should use normal coordinates making my life easier with the Christoffels and use the that the Riemann tensor appears when I have two covariant derivatives acting on a vector field, but I'm stuck and can't figure out how to proceed :(. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

M.
 
Last edited:
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The equation you wrote down to prove would require that ##\nabla_\alpha R =0##. Perhaps you meant ## v^\mu \nabla_\mu R =0##? Also the Killing equation has a + sign: i.e. ##\nabla_\mu v_\nu + \nabla_\nu v_\mu =0##.

If so, you should be able to start with the expression ##\nabla_\nu (v^\mu {R^\nu}_\mu)##. You will need to use (1), the 2nd Bianchi identity in the form ##2 \nabla_\nu {R^\nu}_\mu = \nabla_\mu R## and the Killing equation will make various expressions vanish by symmetry of indices.
 
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You're totally rigth fzero, it is v^\mu \nabla_\mu R=0 and I mistyped the sign killing equation (ooops sorry) shame on me :/.
 

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