Energy-Momentum Tensor: Exploring Einstein-Hilbert Action

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the energy-momentum tensor as defined in the context of the Einstein-Hilbert action, specifically referencing Nakahara's book on Geometry, Topology, and Physics. The energy-momentum tensor is expressed as T^{\mu \nu} = 2 \frac{1}{\sqrt{-g}} \frac{\delta}{\delta g^{\mu \nu}} S_s, raising a question about the absence of the integral \int d^4 x in this formulation. The functional derivative of the actions is also highlighted, emphasizing the relationship between variations in the metric and the resulting energy-momentum tensor.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Einstein-Hilbert action
  • Familiarity with the concept of the energy-momentum tensor
  • Knowledge of functional derivatives in field theory
  • Basic principles of general relativity and differential geometry
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the Einstein-Hilbert action in detail
  • Explore the properties and applications of the energy-momentum tensor in general relativity
  • Learn about functional derivatives and their role in theoretical physics
  • Investigate the implications of metric variations in field theories
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This discussion is beneficial for physicists, particularly those specializing in theoretical physics, general relativity, and field theory, as well as students seeking a deeper understanding of the energy-momentum tensor and its derivation.

lion8172
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I was wondering if someone could clarify something that I read in a book (Nakahara's book on Geometry, Topology, Physics). In the section on the Einstein-Hilbert action, the author defines the energy-momentum tensor as
[tex]\delta S_M = \frac{1}{2} \int T^{\mu \nu} \delta g_{\mu \nu} \sqrt{- g} d^4 x.[/tex]
Shortly thereafter, he then writes that, "for example, [tex]T_{\mu \nu}[/tex] of a real scalar field is given by
[tex]T_{\mu \nu} (x) = 2 \frac{1}{\sqrt{-g}} \frac{\delta}{\delta g^{\mu \nu} (x)} S_s = \cdots.[/tex]
My question is, where did the integral over dx^4 go?
 
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lion8172 said:
[tex]\delta S_M = \frac{1}{2} \int T^{\mu \nu} \delta g_{\mu \nu} \sqrt{- g} d^4 x.[/tex]
Shortly thereafter, he then writes that, "for example, [tex]T_{\mu \nu}[/tex] of a real scalar field is given by
[tex]T_{\mu \nu} (x) = 2 \frac{1}{\sqrt{-g}} \frac{\delta}{\delta g^{\mu \nu} (x)} S_s = \cdots.[/tex]
My question is, where did the integral over dx^4 go?

The functional derivative of the actions is defined by

[tex]\delta S = \int d^{4}x \frac{\delta S}{\delta g^{ab}} \delta g^{ab}[/tex]

regards

sam
 

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