Undergrad Understanding the Derivation of the Metric Tensor

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the derivation of the metric tensor, specifically addressing the equation dui = ai * dr = ai * aj * duj. The participants clarify that while the limit of two vectors can approach the zero vector, this does not imply that the vectors themselves are equivalent in direction. The distinction between the limits of the vectors and their directional properties is emphasized, highlighting the importance of understanding vector notation and limits in the context of differential geometry.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector notation and operations
  • Familiarity with differential geometry concepts
  • Knowledge of limits in calculus
  • Basic principles of tensor calculus
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  • Study the properties of the metric tensor in differential geometry
  • Learn about vector limits and their implications in calculus
  • Explore tensor calculus applications in physics
  • Review the fundamentals of vector spaces and their dimensions
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Students and professionals in mathematics, physics, and engineering who are studying differential geometry, as well as anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of the metric tensor.

kidsasd987
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Hello, I have a question regarding the first equation above.
it says dui=ai*dr=ai*aj*duj but I wonder how. (sorry I omitted vector notation because I don't know how to put them on)

if dui=ai*dr=ai*aj*duj is true, then
dr=aj*duj
|dr|*rhat=|aj|*duj*ajhat
where lim |dr|,|duj|->0

which means rhat=ajhat. are both the directions actually the same or do we just don't care about directions because both will eventually be small increment of each component?
 
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Your error is that the limit of two vectors can be the zero vector (and thus equal to each other) without them pointing in the same direction.
\lim_{x\to 0} x\hat{\imath}= \vec{0},\quad \lim_{y\to 0} y\hat{\jmath} = \vec{0}
this does not imply \hat{\imath} = \hat{\jmath}.
 

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