Is the Quotient Theorem Applicable to 4th Rank Tensors?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around proving that a specific integral expression defines a 4th rank tensor. Participants express confusion about the application of the quotient theorem and the properties of tensors, particularly regarding the transformation of partial derivatives. There is a request for clarification on the definition of tensors and the role of the affine connection. The conversation highlights the need for a deeper understanding of tensor definitions and transformations in the context of the problem posed. Overall, the thread emphasizes the complexities involved in tensor calculus and the challenges faced by learners in grasping these concepts.
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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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