Divide in space and time component

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the separation of components in tensor expressions, specifically focusing on the time and space components of tensors with multiple indices, such as \( G_{\mu\nu\rho} \). The context includes theoretical exploration and mathematical reasoning related to tensor fields in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks to separate the expression \(-\frac{1}{4} F_{\mu\nu} F^{\mu\nu}\) into time and space components, specifically asking how to do this for the three-index tensor \( G_{\mu\nu\rho} \).
  • Another participant suggests looking into Clifford algebra as a potential resource for understanding the separation of components.
  • A participant questions the meaning of the two-index tensor \( \Phi \) and later clarifies that \( \phi_{\nu\rho} \) is an antisymmetric tensor field.
  • It is noted that \( G \) is also an antisymmetric tensor, and the exchange of any pair of indices changes its signature, leading to a discussion about the independence of components.
  • A formula is proposed for separating the components, indicating that among the 64 components of \( G \), only four are independent.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty about the separation of components for three-index tensors, and while some provide insights and resources, there is no consensus on a definitive method to achieve this separation.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention limitations in their understanding of tensor notation and the specific mathematical steps required to separate components, indicating a need for further clarification on the topic.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those studying advanced tensor calculus, particularly in the context of theoretical physics and electromagnetism.

aries0152
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For [tex]-\frac{1} {4} F_{\mu\nu} F^{\mu\nu}[/tex] We can write [tex]-\frac{1} {4} F_{i j} F^{ij} -\frac{1}{2}F_{0i} F^{0i}[/tex] Where [tex]F_{\mu\nu} \equiv \partial_\mu W_\nu-\partial_\nu W\mu[/tex]
If there are 3 indices how can I separate them like this?
I want to separate [tex]\frac{1} {12} G_{\mu\nu\rho} G^{\mu\nu\rho}[/tex] into time and space component . Where [tex]G_{\mu\nu\rho}\equiv\partial_{\mu}\phi_{\nu\rho}+ \partial_{\nu}\phi_{\rho\mu}+\partial_{\rho}\phi_{\mu\nu}[/tex]

How can I do it?
 
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Hi.

What is Φ with two indexes? I have not seen it before. Thank you in advance.
 
sweet springs said:
Hi.

What is Φ with two indexes? I have not seen it before. Thank you in advance.

[tex]\phi_{\nu\rho}[/tex] is a antisymmetric tensor field.
 
granpa said:
I don't know the answer to your question but have you looked into clifford algebra?

http://geocalc.clas.asu.edu/

http://www.mrao.cam.ac.uk/~clifford/publications/abstracts/imag_numbs.html

Actually I want to separate this in space and time component. There is some hint in the "Classical Electrodynamics by Jackson" section 11.6

I can separate the space and time component for two indices (like: [tex]F_{\mu\nu}[/tex] ) but I am not sure how to do it when there are three indices.
can anybody help?
 
Hi. aries.

aries0152 said:
[tex]\phi_{\nu\rho}[/tex] is a antisymmetric tensor field.

I see. so G is antisymmetric tensor. Exchange of any pair of indexes changes signature. Among 4^6 = 64 components, only four components are independent, i.e. 012, 013, 023 and 123. So the formula you are looking for is

1/2 { G_012 G^012 + ( similar other three terms ) }

Regards
 
sweet springs
many many Thanx :-)
 

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