Differential geometry: coordinate patches

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving that the coordinate patch \( u^1 \) represents arc length on the \( u^1 \) curves if and only if \( g_{11} \equiv 1 \). The user attempts to derive the arc length formula for a curve \( \alpha(t) \) using the metric tensor \( g_{ij} \) and expresses uncertainty in applying this to \( u^1 \) curves. Key elements include the metric \( g_{ij}(u^1, u^2) \) and the specific form of the curve \( \alpha(u^1) = x(u^1, b) \). The user seeks assistance in completing the proof.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of differential geometry concepts, particularly coordinate patches.
  • Familiarity with metric tensors and their properties in \( \mathbb{R}^3 \).
  • Knowledge of arc length calculations for curves in a metric space.
  • Ability to manipulate mathematical expressions involving derivatives and inner products.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of metric tensors in differential geometry.
  • Learn how to derive arc length formulas for curves in various coordinate systems.
  • Explore the implications of the condition \( g_{11} \equiv 1 \) on the geometry of curves.
  • Investigate examples of coordinate patches and their applications in differential geometry.
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in mathematics, particularly those studying differential geometry, as well as educators looking for examples of arc length derivations in coordinate systems.

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Homework Statement



For a coordinate patch x: U--->\Re^{3}show thatu^{1}is arc length on the u^{1} curves iff g_{11} \equiv 1

The Attempt at a Solution



So i know arc legth of a curve \alpha (t) = \frac{ds}{dt} = \sum g_{ij} \frac {d\alpha^{i}}{dt} \frac {d\alpha^{j}}{dt} (well that's actually arclength squared but whatever).

But I am not sure how to write this for just a u^{1} curve. A u^{1} curve through the point P= x(a,b) is \alpha(u^{1})= x(u^{1},b)

But i have no idea how to find this arclength applies to u^1 curves.

Furthermore i know some stuff about our metric g_{ij}(u^{1}, u^{2})= <x_{i}(u^{1}, u^{2}), x_{j}(u^{1}, u^{2})

But i do not know how to use that to show that u^1 must be arclength but here is what i have so far:

g_{11}(u^{1}, b)= <x_{1}(u^{1}, u^{2}), x_{2}(u^{1}, u^{2})> We know that x_{1}= (1,0) and that is as far as i got :/

Any help appreciated.
 
Last edited:
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bump, i still need help on this
 
one last bump, can anybody help me on this?
 

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