Difference between mixed tensor notation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the differences in mixed tensor notation, specifically the positioning of contravariant and covariant indices in expressions such as \(\Lambda_\nu^\mu\), \({\Lambda_\nu}^\mu\), and \({\Lambda^\mu}_\nu\). It is established that the arrangement of these indices is crucial for understanding which indices are being utilized in tensor operations, particularly in non-symmetric tensors where the order of indices affects the outcome. The discussion references a resource for further reading on mixed tensor index positions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of tensor notation and indices
  • Familiarity with contravariant and covariant indices
  • Basic knowledge of symmetric and non-symmetric tensors
  • Experience with tensor operations in physics or mathematics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of symmetric and non-symmetric tensors
  • Learn about tensor operations involving index raising and lowering
  • Explore the implications of index positioning in tensor calculus
  • Review the mathematical definitions of contravariant and covariant vectors
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This discussion is beneficial for students and professionals in mathematics, physics, and engineering who are working with tensor analysis and require a deeper understanding of tensor notation and its implications in various applications.

blankvin
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blankvin said:
Hi,

Can someone explain the difference between, say, \Lambda_\nu^\mu, {\Lambda_\nu}^\mu and {\Lambda^\mu}_\nu (i.e. the positioning of the contravariant and covariant indices)?

I have found: http://books.google.ca/books?id=lLP...onepage&q=mixed tensor index position&f=false but maybe someone can shed some more light on this for me.

I assume the issue is that you have more than one covariant/contravariant index in your tensor, and the different ## \Lambda ## tell you which index you are making use of, i.e., are you
using the 1st covariant index together with the second contravariant, or the 2nd covariant together with the third contravariant, etc.
 
blankvin said:
Hi,

Can someone explain the difference between, say, \Lambda_\nu^\mu, {\Lambda_\nu}^\mu and {\Lambda^\mu}_\nu (i.e. the positioning of the contravariant and covariant indices)?

I have found: http://books.google.ca/books?id=lLP...onepage&q=mixed tensor index position&f=false but maybe someone can shed some more light on this for me.

The positions of the indices indicate to you which is the first and second. For a symmetric tensor, it wouldn't matter really, but for a non-symmetric tensor, it might matter which index you raise/lower.

For example: ##F^{\mu}_{~~\nu}=g^{\mu\rho}F_{\rho\nu}## versus ##F^{~~\mu}_\nu=g^{\mu\rho}F_{\nu\rho}##
 
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