- #1
math771
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Hi there! I can understand your confusion about this example of a `strained' line bundle. It definitely seems counterintuitive that a vertical displacement would result in a helical path. However, I think the key to understanding this is to remember that a `connexion' on a bundle allows for a non-trivial parallel transport between fibers. In other words, the connection allows the fiber to rotate as it moves along the base manifold.
In this case, the failed attempt to trace out a horizontal section is due to the fact that the fiber is rotating as it moves along the base manifold. So even though you start at point b and move vertically, the fiber is also rotating, causing the path to wind upwards. This is why the rotation is double the initial displacement after completing a 360 degree traversal.
I hope this helps to clear up some of your confusion. It's definitely a tricky concept to wrap your head around, but just remember that the connection allows for non-trivial parallel transport and that should help make sense of the helical path. Happy learning!