Introduction to cartesian tensors

In summary: DIn summary, the exercise is asking to compute a vector using the given expression, with "i" as a subscript meaning partial derivative with respect to xi. The symbols "i" and "ij" represent partial derivatives in Einstein notation.
  • #1
progiangbk
13
0

Homework Statement



This exercice is in a Chapter named Introduction to Cartesian tensors. The following is the original question of the exercise:

Homework Equations



Compute the vector: (x1^2 + 2x1*x2^2 + 3x2^2*x3), i

The Attempt at a Solution



Plz help me, i don't understand what is the requirement ^^. Thanks very much!
 
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  • #2
welcome to pf!

hi progiangbk! welcome to pf! :smile:

(try using the X2 and X2 buttons just above the Reply box :wink:)
progiangbk said:

Homework Statement



This exercice is in a Chapter named Introduction to Cartesian tensors. The following is the original question of the exercise:

Homework Equations



Compute the vector: (x1^2 + 2x1*x2^2 + 3x2^2*x3), i

The Attempt at a Solution



Plz help me, i don't understand what is the requirement ^^. Thanks very much!

do you mean x12 + 2x1*x22 + 3x22*x3 ?

but that's not a vector, it's a scalar :confused:

have you missed something out?​
 
  • #3
No, please see the expression again, there is a bracket pair and i symbol at the end: (x1^2 + 2x1*x2^2 + 3x2^2*x3), i

I have uploaded the picture of the exercise 16: http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/4437/66167045.png

In the same occassion, if you know the meaning of some symbols and eq to calculate the exercise 17 and 18 (in red rectangular), pls help me. Thanks !
 
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  • #4
hi progiangbk! :smile:

(please use the X2 and X2 buttons just above the Reply box :wink:)

ohh, the "i" is a subscript

why didn't you say so? :redface:

you mean (x12 + 2x1*x22 + 3x22*x3)i ?

,i means ∂/∂xi

,ij means ∂2/∂xi∂xj

(so eg A,i means the vector whose ith component is ∂A/∂xi)
 
  • #5
Mod note: moving this thread to Calculus & Beyond.
 
  • #6
Hi tiny-tim,

Thanks for your help.

Because I have just started to learned this subject and the author of the book has written like that so I copy original version only :P please see the picture! i have understood something after reading your answer but if you can do it completely, i can understand more, because I have many more exercise like that, so pls help ^

∂2/∂xi∂xj mean d2/dx1dx2 right?

thanks
 
  • #7
(please use the X2 and X2 buttons just above the Reply box )

Sorry, i have not been accustomed to this site
 
  • #8
hi progiangbk! :smile:

(just got up :zzz:)
progiangbk said:
∂2/∂xi∂xj mean d2/dx1dx2 right?

well, it only means that if i = 1 and j = 2

2/∂xi∂xj is a general formula, for any values of i and j (= 1 2 or 3, possibly the same) :wink:

(this may help … http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Einstein_notation )
 
  • #9
Thanks very much, i have submitted my HW he!
 

FAQ: Introduction to cartesian tensors

1. What are cartesian tensors?

Cartesian tensors are mathematical objects that describe the relationship between different coordinate systems in a multi-dimensional space. They are used in physics and engineering to represent physical quantities such as stress, strain, and electric fields.

2. What is the purpose of introduction to cartesian tensors?

The purpose of an introduction to cartesian tensors is to provide a basic understanding of these mathematical objects and their applications in various fields of science and engineering. It covers the fundamental concepts and properties of cartesian tensors, as well as their notation and operations.

3. How do cartesian tensors differ from other types of tensors?

Cartesian tensors are a specific type of tensor that is defined in a rectangular cartesian coordinate system. They differ from other types of tensors, such as covariant and contravariant tensors, which are defined in more general coordinate systems.

4. What are some real-world applications of cartesian tensors?

Cartesian tensors have numerous applications in different fields of science and engineering. Some examples include their use in mechanics to describe stress and strain in materials, in electromagnetism to represent electric and magnetic fields, and in fluid dynamics to describe fluid flow.

5. Is prior knowledge of tensor algebra required for understanding cartesian tensors?

While prior knowledge of tensor algebra can be helpful, it is not necessary for understanding cartesian tensors. An introduction to cartesian tensors typically covers the basics of tensor notation and operations, making it accessible to those with a background in mathematics and physics.

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