Connection and tensor-issue with the proof

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Homework Help Overview

The original poster attempts to prove the equation \(\Gamma^{a}_{bc} T^{bc} = 0\), where \(\Gamma^{a}_{bc}\) represents the Christoffel symbols and \(T^{bc}\) is a tensor. The discussion revolves around the properties of tensors and connections in the context of differential geometry.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the nature of the tensor \(T^{bc}\) and its relationship to the Christoffel symbols. There are questions regarding the specific properties of the tensor, such as symmetry and the basis in which it is defined. The original poster's approach involves expanding the Christoffel symbols and considering different bases.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the definitions and properties of the tensors involved. Some guidance has been offered regarding the conditions under which the original equation holds, particularly concerning the symmetry of the tensor and the nature of the connection.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of specificity regarding the tensor \(T^{bc}\) and its properties, which is central to the discussion. Participants are questioning assumptions about the basis and the connection used in the proof.

rsaad
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Homework Statement



I am tying to prove the following:
\Gamma^{a}_{bc} T^{bc} =0

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I approached this problem as follows:
dx_{b}/dx^{c} * e^{a} (e^{b} . e^{c}) but it did not yield anything.
Then I expanded the christoeffel symbols into g s and again I am not sure what to do next.So any hints please
 
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Your post is incomplete to say the least. What is ##\tau^{bc}## to start with?
 
That's a tensor.
 
a symmetric tensor.
 
In a coordinate basis? A non-holonomic basis?
 
Again you are not being specific enough. ##\Gamma^{a}_{bc}\tau^{bc} = 0## is certainly not true in general for any symmetric tensor ##\tau^{bc}## if ##\Gamma^{a}_{bc}## are the coefficients of the Levi-Civita connection. It is only true in general if ##\tau^{bc}## is antisymmetric so you must specify what exactly the tensor ##\tau^{bc}## is.
 
Γabc are the christoffel symbols/connection and T^(bc) = (e^b,e^c)
 
rsaad said:
Γabc are the christoffel symbols/connection and T^(bc) = (e^b,e^c)

Do you mean T^{bc} = T \left( e^b , e^c \right)?
 
yes.
 
  • #10
And \left\{ e_a \right\} is an orthonormal basis?
 
  • #11
Yes, it is,
 
  • #12
First, In don't think that you should write \Gamma^a{}_{bc} instead of \Gamma^a_{bc}.

Second, what anti-symmetry property does the Levi-Civita connection have with respect to an orthonormal basis?
 

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