Help Understanding Equation 3.6 in Covariant Physics by Moataz H. Emam

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around understanding Equation 3.6 from the book "Covariant Physics" by Moataz H. Emam, specifically regarding the transformation of a displacement vector in the context of point particle mechanics. Participants seek clarification on the derivation and the rules applied, such as whether it involves the chain rule or product rule.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the derivation of Equation 3.6 and questions whether it uses the chain rule or product rule.
  • Another participant notes the need for context regarding the author's notation to better understand the equation.
  • A later reply suggests that the equation demonstrates the covariance of classical mechanics using Einstein index notation, indicating that the transformation of the position vector and its derivative shows tensor-like behavior.
  • One participant points out a potential typo in the equation, suggesting that an index should read ##j##.
  • A participant provides a derivation approach, detailing the transformation equations and steps leading to the final equation.
  • Another participant expresses gratitude for the clarification, indicating that the explanation makes sense to them.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need for clarification regarding the equation, but there are differing views on the specifics of the derivation and notation. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the exact nature of the transformation rules applied.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the need for clearer notation and context, indicating that the understanding of the equation may depend on these factors. There is also mention of a potential typo, which could affect interpretation.

louvig
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I am a physics enthusiast reading Covariant Physics by Moataz H. Emam. In his chapter about Point Particle mechanics there is a transformation equation for a displacement vector. I don't see how he arrived at the final equation 3.6. Is it a chain rule or product rule? Can't seem to figure it out. See attachment. Thanks in advance for any insight.
 
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It's a bit difficult to read. Also, perhaps needs some context re the author's notation.
 
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PeroK said:
It's a bit difficult to read. Also, perhaps needs some context re the author's notation.
Sorry. I tried a screenshot from Kindle instead. I am able to click on it in my smartphone and make it full screen and is legible. The author is showing the covariance of classical mechanics using Einstein index notation. In this instance he is showing the transformation of the position vector which is straightforward and then the transformation of the derivative of the position vector. His point is to show ot transforms like a tensor and is therefore invariant.
 
eq 3.6 has a typo, this index should read ##j## https://web.cortland.edu/moataz.emam/
1687583372935.png


The derivation is straight-forward:
Use that ##\hat{ \textbf{g}}_{i'} = \lambda^k_{i'} \hat{ \textbf{e}}_k ## and ##x^{i'} = \lambda^{i'}_j x^j##.
We get ## d\hat{ \textbf{g}}_{i'} = \hat{ \textbf{e}}_k d \lambda^k_{i'} ## and ##x^{i'} = x^j d\lambda^{i'}_j + \lambda^{i'}_j dx^j##.
And you will obtain the final step in that equation.
 
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Thank you so much. Makes sense.
 
louvig said:
View attachment 328307I am a physics enthusiast reading Covariant Physics by Moataz H. Emam. In his chapter about Point Particle mechanics there is a transformation equation for a displacement vector. I don't see how he arrived at the final equation 3.6. Is it a chain rule or product rule? Can't seem to figure it out. See attachment. Thanks in advance for any insight.

Everything with primed coordinates was replaced with its transformation. So x’=lambda x and so on.
 
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