Converting between Covariant and Contravariant matrices

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on converting between covariant and contravariant components of a matrix in polar coordinates. The matrix provided is defined with specific elements, where the user initially misapplies the polar coordinates metric, leading to incorrect results. The correct contravariant components are identified as A^11 = 2, A^22 = -2/r^2, and A^12 = 2cot(2θ)/r. The solution emphasizes the importance of using the appropriate basis for polar coordinates, specifically d/dr and d/dθ, as demonstrated in Leonard Susskind's general relativity lectures.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of covariant and contravariant tensors
  • Familiarity with polar coordinates in differential geometry
  • Knowledge of matrix representation in tensor calculus
  • Basic principles of general relativity
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of polar coordinates in tensor calculus
  • Review Leonard Susskind's general relativity lectures, particularly lecture 3
  • Learn about the metric tensor and its role in raising and lowering indices
  • Practice converting between coordinate systems in tensor analysis
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in mathematics, physics, and engineering who are working with tensor calculus and general relativity, particularly those needing to understand the conversion between covariant and contravariant matrices in various coordinate systems.

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Homework Statement



Given a matrix {latex] A_11 =A_22 = 0 A_12 =A_21 = x/y +y/x [ /latex] Find the contravariant components in polar coordinates.

Answer:

A_11 = 2 A_22 = -2/r^2 A_12 = 2cot(2 /theta)/r [ /latex]<br /> <h2>Homework Equations</h2><br /> <br /> I used the polar coordinates metric to raise indecies but i do not get the correct answer I get:<br /> <br /> A^11 = A^22 = 0 A^12 = csc( /theta)sec( /theta) / r^4 A^21 = csc( /theta)sec( /theta) [ /latex]Any clue on what I am doing wrong?&lt;h2&gt;The Attempt at a Solution&lt;/h2&gt;
 
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You should use [ t e x ] and [ / t e x ] to write in tex.

What you forget (I think) is that you should give the matrix also in the basis of polar coordinates (i.e. d/dr and d/dθ) instead of d/dx and d/dy as you did.
 
Leonard Susskind does an example of this in lecture 3 of his general relativity lectures.



He does an example with polar coordinates at 1:37

It may be helpful
 
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