DEC with E/M and scalar fields

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around demonstrating that electromagnetism and scalar field theories satisfy the Dominant Energy Condition (DEC). Participants explore the mathematical formulation of the energy-momentum tensor and the conditions that need to be satisfied, specifically focusing on the minimally coupled scalar field theory.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks to show that electromagnetism and scalar field theories satisfy the DEC, mentioning the specific conditions involving the energy-momentum tensor.
  • The participant provides the form of the energy-momentum tensor for a minimally coupled scalar field theory, including terms related to the gradient of the field and a positive potential.
  • Another participant questions whether the inquiry is a homework problem, referencing forum rules regarding posting homework questions.
  • A later reply clarifies that the problem is a former homework problem, indicating dissatisfaction with the initial solution.
  • There is a reiteration of the forum rules concerning the posting of homework problems, emphasizing the need to show work for graduate-level assignments.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the nature of the inquiry as related to homework, but there is no consensus on the specific approach to demonstrating the DEC or the satisfaction of the conditions outlined.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not yet provided specific attempts or methodologies for addressing the problem, and there may be limitations related to the assumptions made about the energy-momentum tensor and the scalar field theory.

blendecho
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Hi,

I'm trying to show that electromagnetism and scalar field theories satisfy the DEC. I know how to find [tex]T_{\mu\nu}[/tex] and all that and what I have to show ([tex]T_{\mu\nu} T^\nu_{\ \lambda} t^\mu t^\lambda\leq 0[/tex] and [tex]T_{\mu\nu} t^\mu t^\nu\geq 0[/tex] for timelike [tex]t^\mu[/tex]), but I'm having trouble getting started.

Thanks!

(Edit: Make that just the minimally coupled scalar field theory, [tex]T_{\mu\nu} = \nabla_\mu \phi \nabla_\nu \phi - \frac{1}{2}g_{\mu\nu}\nabla^\sigma \phi \nabla_\sigma \phi - g_{\mu\nu}V(\phi)[/tex] for some positive potential)
 
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This is a homework problem, correct? (There is a special PF forum with special rules for these.)
 
It's a former homework problem, I wasn't satisfied with my solution.
 
So, what did you try in your attempt?
 
Chris Hillman said:
This is a homework problem, correct? (There is a special PF forum with special rules for these.)

That applies to undergraduate homework problems. Graduate homework problems can optionally be posted to the main forums. But it is still required to show one's work.

To quote the relevant section from the rules (I should add for people new to the forum that one can click on the link named "rules" to see the current PF rules)

On posting questions: Any and all high school and undergraduate homework assignments or textbook style exercises for which you are seeking assistance are to be posted in the appropriate forum in our Homework & Coursework Questions area.This should be done whether or not the problem is part of one's coursework. The reason for this is that the scientific and mathematical sections of Physics Forums are to be reserved for discussions and not academic assistance. Since graduate level assignments are meant to be more thought provoking (and hence more worthy of discussion), graduate level questions will be allowed in the relevant part of the main section of PF, provided that the graduate student attempts the problem and shows his work.
 

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