Energy Tensor Gradients: ∂βTμυ

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter dsaun777
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Energy Tensor
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the gradients of the energy-momentum tensor, specifically the expression ∂βTμυ for β values of 1, 2, and 3, without involving time derivatives. Participants explore the implications of the conservation law ∇μTμυ=0 and seek to clarify the meaning and calculation of these gradients in different contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that ∇μTμυ=0 represents conservation or continuity, questioning the meaning of ∂βTμυ for specific β values.
  • Others clarify that ∂βTμυ is simply the partial derivative of a tensor component in given coordinates, emphasizing the need for context in its interpretation.
  • A participant points out that the gradient of the energy-momentum tensor depends on the specific stress-energy tensor and the chosen coordinates, comparing it to asking for the derivative of a vector without specifying its nature.
  • There is mention of the covariant component Tμν:β as a three-rank tensor, although uncertainty exists regarding its physical significance.
  • One participant inquires about the gradient of the stress-energy tensor for an incompressible fluid with a specified density, indicating a specific application of the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the interpretation and implications of ∂βTμυ, with multiple competing views and uncertainties remaining about its general applicability and physical meaning.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependence on the specific form of the stress-energy tensor and the coordinate system used, as well as the lack of clarity regarding the physical interpretation of certain tensor components.

dsaun777
Messages
296
Reaction score
39
I understand, kind of, that ∇μTμυ=0 by conservation or coninuity. What would be ∂βTμυ when β=1,2,3 no time derivative.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
dsaun777 said:
I understand, kind of, that ∇μTμυ=0 by conservation or coninuity. What would be ∂βTμυ when β=1,2,3 no time derivative.
I hope that you are aware that there is a summation over ##\mu## in the first equation. What do you mean by "what would be..."? It is exactly what you have written, the partial derivative of a function, which is the component of a tensor in some coordinates.
 
martinbn said:
I hope that you are aware that there is a summation over ##\mu## in the first equation. What do you mean by "what would be..."? It is exactly what you have written, the partial derivative of a function, which is the component of a tensor in some coordinates.
I meant what would be the spatial gradient of the energy momentum tensor?
 
There's no general answer to this question...##\partial_\beta T_{\mu\nu}## depends on the stress energy tensor and the coordinates you chose...it's like asking "what's ##d\vec{v}/dt##?" without specifying anything about ##\vec{v}##. It's hard to figure out what you're trying to get at.

At most, I can say, in 4-D spacetime, with the restriction that ##\beta=1,2,3##, then ##\partial_\beta T_{\mu\nu}## is a set of 48 numbers.
 
Matterwave said:
There's no general answer to this question...##\partial_\beta T_{\mu\nu}## depends on the stress energy tensor and the coordinates you chose...it's like asking "what's ##d\vec{v}/dt##?" without specifying anything about ##\vec{v}##. It's hard to figure out what you're trying to get at.

At most, I can say, in 4-D spacetime, with the restriction that ##\beta=1,2,3##, then ##\partial_\beta T_{\mu\nu}## is a set of 48 numbers.
For some incompressable fluid with density ρ(xμ,t ) at rest what is gradient of the stress energy tensor Tαβ
 
dsaun777 said:
I understand, kind of, that ∇μTμυ=0 by conservation or coninuity. What would be ∂βTμυ when β=1,2,3 no time derivative.
T_{\mu\nu:\beta} is covariant component of a three rank tensor allowing $$\beta=0,1,2,3$$ though I do not know if there is a physical meaning on it.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
815
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 38 ·
2
Replies
38
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
925
  • · Replies 28 ·
Replies
28
Views
2K
  • · Replies 36 ·
2
Replies
36
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K