Undergrad Difference between tensor and vector?

Click For Summary
The Kronecker delta, δij, is classified as a rank 2 tensor because it can be represented as a matrix, while a vector is a rank 1 tensor. The discussion confirms that a scalar is a rank 0 tensor, and the hierarchy of tensor ranks is clarified. Participants agree on the definitions and relationships between tensors, vectors, and scalars. The conversation also includes a reference to additional resources for further understanding. Overall, the distinction between tensors and vectors is emphasized through their respective ranks.
Vitani11
Messages
275
Reaction score
3
δij is the Kronecker delta - is this considered a tensor or vector? I know it means the identity when i=j so I'm going to guess tensor because it's a matrix rather than just a vector but I want to make sure. A matrix is a rank 2 tensor and a vector is a rank 1 and a scalar is a rank 0? How does that work?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Okay awesome! Thank you for the clarification and link
 
We all know the definition of n-dimensional topological manifold uses open sets and homeomorphisms onto the image as open set in ##\mathbb R^n##. It should be possible to reformulate the definition of n-dimensional topological manifold using closed sets on the manifold's topology and on ##\mathbb R^n## ? I'm positive for this. Perhaps the definition of smooth manifold would be problematic, though.

Similar threads

  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
680
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
783
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
4K