Is the Quotient Theorem Applicable to 4th Rank Tensors?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the applicability of the quotient theorem to a specific expression involving a 4th rank tensor, represented as b_{ijkl} in the context of tensor calculus and differential geometry.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to understand the nature of the expression and its classification as a tensor. Questions about the definition of tensors and the role of affine connections are raised, along with inquiries about the transformation of partial derivatives.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on tensor definitions and properties. Some guidance has been offered regarding the need to refer back to textbooks for foundational concepts, but there is no explicit consensus on the main question regarding the quotient theorem.

Contextual Notes

Participants express confusion about the definitions of tensors and the conditions under which they qualify, indicating a potential gap in understanding foundational material. There is also mention of vague definitions in their reference texts.

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Prove that b_{ijkl}=\int_{r<a} dV x_i x_j \frac{\partial^2}{\partial_k \partial_l} (\frac{1}{r}) where r=|x| is a 4th rank tensor.

i've had a couple of bashes and got nowhere other than to establish that its quotient theorem.

can i just pick a tensor of rank 3 to multiply it with or something?
 
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hmm … do you mean …
Prove that bijkl = ∫r<a dV xi xj2(1/r)/∂kl, where r=|x|, is a 4th rank tensor.
 
yep.
 
I have no idea how to solve this too, can you give me some idea please?
 
welcome to pf!

hi nhanle! welcome to pf! :wink:

ok, what is the test for something being a tensor? :smile:
 
hi tiny-tim,
thank you for your reply. This is how vague the definition of tensor I am holding at the moment.
I am also confused about the Affine connection. Can you help me clarify this?

Thank you
 
?? :confused:

i'm not going to type out a lecture on tensors and connections :redface:

please go back to your book or your lecture notes, and read up about tensors
 
those appears on my lecture notes and also my book (general relativity - M.P.Hobson, G. Efstathiou, A.N. Lasenby) with very vague definitions.

From my understanding, if one is to be a rank N-tensor, it should expect to have N derivative summations under coordinate transformation. Is that right?
 
does your book show why the Christoffel symbols aren't tensors?

if so, that should show you how to do it :smile:
 
  • #10
it does but only with a few special case. So, I stumpled on this question "Prove that bijkl = ∫r<a dV xi xj ∂2(1/r)/∂k∂l, where r=|x|, is a 4th rank tensor."

How to transform the partial derivatives? Thank you for being so patient with me
I also have question about the affine connection https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=189456 which was raised long ago but no one seems to be interested in answering :(
 

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