Deriving the 4d continuity equation

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on deriving the 4D continuity equation from the integral form using Gauss's theorem. The initial equation is transformed into a divergence form, leading to the expression that combines time and spatial derivatives. A participant expresses confusion about the transition to 4D notation, specifically how it expands. Clarification is provided regarding the use of four-vector notation and Einstein's summation convention, which ultimately resolves the confusion. The conversation highlights the complexities of understanding continuity equations in higher dimensions.
Thrice
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Well we start out with

-\frac {d} {dt} \int_{V}^{} \sigma dV = \int_{\Pi}^{} \vec{J} \cdot d\vec{\Pi}

Using the Gauss theorem

\int_{V}^{} (\frac{ \partial {\sigma}}{ \partial {t}} + div \vec{J}) dV = 0

so

\frac{ \partial {\sigma}}{ \partial {t}} + div \vec{J} = 0

and written in 4D..

\frac{ \partial {J^n}}{ \partial {x^n}} = 0 \qquad\quad\ (n = 0,1,2,3)

I can't seem to get my head around that last step. How does it expand out?
 
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Ok done editing.
 
This field is really confusing. Should I just gauss the answer?
 
Thrice said:
Well we start out with

-\frac {d} {dt} \int_{V}^{} \sigma dV = \int_{\Pi}^{} \vec{J} \cdot d\vec{\Pi}

Using the Gauss theorem

\int_{V}^{} (\frac{ \partial {\sigma}}{ \partial {t}} + div \vec{J}) dV = 0

so

\frac{ \partial {\sigma}}{ \partial {t}} + div \vec{J} = 0

and written in 4D..

\frac{ \partial {J^n}}{ \partial {x^n}} = 0 \qquad\quad\ (n = 0,1,2,3)

I can't seem to get my head around that last step. How does it expand out?
Are you familiar with four-vector notation and so on? Then it is simply a question of definition that the last expression is \partial_\mu J_\mu =0 where Einstein's summation convention is used.
 
Yeah well I'm familiar with it, but I needed the definition spelled out. I eventually worked it out.
 
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