MHB Is the Lie derivative of a smooth vector field equal to the Lie bracket field?

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    2015
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The discussion centers on proving that the Lie derivative of a smooth vector field Y along another smooth vector field X, denoted as \(\mathcal{L}_X Y\), is equal to the Lie bracket field \([X, Y]\). The Lie derivative is defined using the flow of X, specifically as \(\mathcal{L}_X Y = \frac{d}{dt}\bigg|_{t=0} \phi_{-t*}Y\). The problem remains unanswered in the forum, indicating a need for further exploration or clarification on this mathematical concept. The original poster has provided a solution, but it is not discussed in detail within the thread. This highlights an opportunity for engagement and deeper understanding of Lie derivatives and brackets in differential geometry.
Euge
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Let $M$ be a smooth manifold, $X, Y$ smooth vector fields on $M$, and $\phi_t$ the flow of $X$. The Lie derivative of $Y$ along $X$, $\mathcal{L}_XY$, is given by

$$\mathcal{L}_XY:= \frac{d}{dt}\bigg|_{t=0} \phi_{-t*}Y.$$

Show that $\mathcal{L}_XY$ is equal to the Lie bracket field $[X,Y]$.
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Remember to read the http://www.mathhelpboards.com/showthread.php?772-Problem-of-the-Week-%28POTW%29-Procedure-and-Guidelines to find out how to http://www.mathhelpboards.com/forms.php?do=form&fid=2!
 
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No one answered this week's problem. You can read my solution below.
Let $f$ be a smooth function on $M$. For each $p\in M$,

$$\mathcal{L}_XYf(p) = \frac{d}{dt}\bigg|_{t = 0} \phi_{-t*}Yf(p) $$
$$= \frac{d}{dt}\bigg|_{t = 0} Y(f\circ \phi_{-t})(\phi_t(p))$$
$$=\lim_{t \to 0} \frac{Y(f\circ \phi_{-t})(\phi_t(p)) - Yf(p)}{t}$$
$$=\lim_{t\to 0} \frac{Y(f\circ \phi_{-t})(\phi_t(p)) - Y(f\circ \phi_{-t})(p)}{t} + \lim_{t\to 0} \frac{Y(f\circ \phi_{-t})(p) - Yf(p)}{t}$$
$$= \lim_{t\to 0} \frac{\phi_t^*Yf - Yf}{t}(\phi_{-t}(p)) + Y\left(\lim_{t\to 0} \frac{(f\circ \phi_{-t})(p) - f(p)}{t}\right)$$
$$=X(Yf)(p) + Y(-Xf)(p)$$
$$= [X,Y]f(p).$$

Since $f$ and $p$ were arbitrary, $\mathcal{L}_XY = [X,Y]$.
 

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