Clifford algebra isomorphic to tensor algebra or exterior algebra?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the isomorphism between Clifford algebra C(V) and tensor algebra Λ(V). It clarifies that while both are isomorphic as vector spaces, they are only isomorphic as algebras when the Clifford algebra is constructed from the zero quadratic form. The confusion arises from a misprint in the referenced paper, which incorrectly interchanges the terms tensor algebra and Λ(V). The dimensionality of both algebras is confirmed to be 2dim(V).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Clifford algebra C(V)
  • Familiarity with tensor algebra and antisymmetric tensor algebra Λ(V)
  • Knowledge of vector space isomorphism concepts
  • Basic principles of quadratic forms in algebra
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of Clifford algebra and its construction from quadratic forms
  • Explore the relationship between tensor algebra and antisymmetric tensor algebra
  • Learn about vector space isomorphisms and their implications in algebra
  • Investigate the applications of Clifford algebra in physics and geometry
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Mathematicians, physicists, and students studying advanced algebraic structures, particularly those interested in the applications of Clifford and tensor algebras.

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Unfortunately there seems to be a misprint in the paper I'm reading which is an introduction to clifford algebra, it says:(I highlighted in red possible misprint, either one of them has to be true misprint if you know what I mean)

The Clifford algebra C(V) is isomorphic to the tensor algebra Lambda(V) and is therefore a 2^{dim(V)} dimensional vector space with generators blah blah blah...

Now, I know C(V) is defined as T(V)/I with you know what "I" so I'm wondering how can there be isomorphism between C(V) and T(V) but on the other hand dimension 2^{dim(V)} is indeed dimension of tensor algebra right? Also the author said tensor algebra but then wrote Lambda...-_-

I'm confused~~
 
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One of the names for [itex]\Lambda(V)[/itex] is the "antisymmetric tensor algebra (over V)".


Incidentally, while they are always isomorphic as vector spaces, I think they are only isomorphic as algebras when the Clifford algebra is built from the zero quadratic form.
 
Hurkyl said:
Incidentally, while they are always isomorphic as vector spaces, I think they are only isomorphic as algebras when the Clifford algebra is built from the zero quadratic form.

Yes.

Somtimes the vector space isomorphism between [itex]Cl(V)[/itex] and [itex]\Lambda(V)[/itex] is exploited by defining a second product on (vector space) [itex]\Lambda(V)[/itex] that makes (vector space) [itex]\Lambda(V)[/itex] with new product isomorphic to [itex]Cl(V).[/itex]
 

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