Explore Geometry of Symmetric Spaces & Lie Groups on PF

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on the geometry of symmetric spaces and Lie groups, particularly in the context of physics. Participants aim to explore various mathematical concepts related to Lie algebras and their representations, the structure of Lie groups, and their applications in theories such as Kaluza-Klein theory. The conversation is intended to be detailed and specific, with an emphasis on examples like SU(2) and SU(3).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express interest in the relationship between Lie algebra generators and their corresponding Lie group manifolds, particularly through the example of SU(2).
  • There is a discussion on the representation of Lie algebra generators as matrices and their properties, including structure coefficients and orthogonality relations.
  • Participants propose to derive the explicit form of group elements from Lie algebra elements through exponentiation.
  • One participant introduces the concept of Killing vector fields and their connection to the flows induced by Lie algebra generators.
  • Another participant mentions the Maurer-Cartan forms and their role in constructing metrics on group manifolds.
  • There is a request for clarification on notation used in the discussion, particularly regarding the representation of vectors and forms.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the topics to be explored, but there are multiple competing views on specific mathematical representations and interpretations, particularly regarding the calculation of Killing vector fields and the form of the group element g. The discussion remains unresolved on these technical points.

Contextual Notes

Some limitations include the dependence on specific definitions and the need for further clarification on mathematical notation and concepts, such as the relationship between Killing vector fields and the structure of the group manifold.

  • #121
How can we write the spin connection (and the Cartan's first structure equation ) if the manifold is a simple torus ?

same question if the manifold now is z=5-x^2-y^2
 
Last edited:
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  • #122
Mehdi_ said:
How can we write the spin connection (and the Cartan's first structure equation ) if the manifold is a simple torus ?

0

same question if the manifold now is z=5-x^2-y^2

Ah, an embedded surface. That's going to take a couple of pages of algebra to work out the frame and connection. I encourage you to tackle it on a different thread. ;) I'll give you a hint though: treat this manifold as a parameterized surface, embedded in 3D, with coordinates (parameters) x and y. It's going to take some work to get the coefficients of two orthonormal tangent vectors over this surface,
<br /> \vec{e_1} = a \vec{\frac{\partial}{\partial x}} + b \vec{\frac{\partial}{\partial y}}<br />
<br /> \vec{e_2} = c \vec{\frac{\partial}{\partial x}} + d \vec{\frac{\partial}{\partial y}}<br />
, then more work to get the frame, and more to get the connection. Maybe start by choosing c=0, and solve for a,b,c.

I'll look in on the other thread and see how you're doing.
 
  • #123
Question 1: To calculate the spin connection of z=5-x^2-y^2 could we calculate first :
The metric, Ricci Rotation coefficients, christoffel symbols, those orthonomal basis (why not nonholonomic basis?), Riemann tensor, Ricci tensor, Ricci scalar, tetrad method and curvature one forms ??

Question 2: Why it is so important to know the curvature ? Does the spin connection (or maybe Cartan's first structure equation) give information about the curvature ?
Probably Riemann curvature tensor does ?...
What is the relation between the spin connection and Riemann curvature tensor ?

Question 3: Does the curvature give the strength of the field ?
 
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