Is this answer about Lorentz transforms correct?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the classification of entities involved in the Lorentz transformation, specifically whether the symbols ##X## and ##\Lambda## can be considered tensors. The conversation touches on theoretical aspects of tensor analysis and coordinate transformations within the context of special relativity.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Jack Fraser asserts that both ##X## and ##\Lambda## are tensors, prompting a challenge from other participants.
  • Some participants argue that ##X## is a tensor while ##\Lambda## is not, emphasizing the distinction between geometric objects and matrices.
  • Another viewpoint suggests that neither ##X## nor ##\Lambda## are tensors, interpreting ##X## as coordinates rather than a tensorial entity.
  • One participant elaborates that while the Lorentz transformation can relate tensor components, it does not strictly transform coordinates as tensors do.
  • There is a discussion about the implications of treating ##X## as a generic vector versus interpreting it as coordinates, which requires additional assumptions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the tensorial nature of ##X## and ##\Lambda##, with no consensus reached on their classification. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the correct interpretation of these symbols in the context of Lorentz transformations.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the need for clarity on definitions and assumptions regarding tensors and coordinate transformations, indicating that the discussion is contingent on these factors.

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No.
 
##X## is, ##\Lambda## is not.

Thinking in terms of components, the components of a tensor multiply the outer product of the basis vectors or one-forms, and the sum of the components times those basis entities forms the geometric object that is the tensor. The Lorentz transform is just a matrix of numbers that relate tensor components in one coordinate system to tensor components in another.
 
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How would a coordinate transformation transform under a coordinate transformation?
 
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Ibix said:
##X## is, ##\Lambda## is not.
I think neither of them are tensors. The referred user talks about coordinate transformation, so his ##X## are coordinates.
haushofer said:
How would a coordinate transformation transform under a coordinate transformation?
no way :biggrin:
 
kent davidge said:
I think neither of them are tensors. The referred user talks about coordinate transformation, so his ##X## are coordinates.
But coordinates do not, in general, transform by ##\Lambda^{\mu'}{}_\mu X^\mu##. He can get away with it in Einstein coordinates on flat spacetime because there's a trivial relationship between the coordinates and a set of "position vectors" defined in the tangent space associated with the origin.

So what he's doing is not - strictly - transforming coordinates. He's defining a set of vectors, associating them with the coordinates, transforming the vectors, and associating them with the transformed coordinates.

Treating ##X## as any generic vector is fine and my previous answer stands. If you want to interpret ##X## as coordinates then you need to make additional assumptions.
 
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