Metric tensor, infitesimal transformation

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the transformation of the metric tensor \( g_{\mu\nu}(x) \) under infinitesimal coordinate changes in the context of field theory. The transformation is defined as \( g_{\mu\nu}(x) \rightarrow g'_{\mu'\nu'}(x') \) using the Jacobian of the coordinate transformation. The user initially struggles to derive the textbook result \( \delta g_{\mu\nu}(x) = \epsilon_{\mu;\nu} + \epsilon_{\nu;\mu} \) but ultimately resolves the issue independently. This highlights the importance of understanding covariant derivatives in the context of general covariance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of metric tensors in general relativity
  • Familiarity with Lagrangian density in field theory
  • Knowledge of covariant derivatives and their properties
  • Basic grasp of coordinate transformations in differential geometry
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  • Study the properties of covariant derivatives in detail
  • Explore the implications of general covariance in field theories
  • Learn about the role of the metric tensor in general relativity
  • Investigate the derivation of transformation laws for tensors
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This discussion is beneficial for graduate students in physics, particularly those studying general relativity and field theory, as well as researchers interested in the mathematical foundations of these subjects.

gouranja
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Hi,

I don't think this belongs in the homework section since this is a graduate course.
My question is regarding making a field theory generally covariant by including a metric tensor [tex]g_{\mu\nu}(x)[/tex]in the Lagransian density, and it's transformation under infinitesimal coordinate change.

If I transform the coordinates according to:
[tex]x^{\mu}\rightarrow x^{\mu}'=x^{\mu}+\epsilon^{\mu}(x)[/tex]

The metric must be transformed according to:
[tex]g_{\mu\nu}(x)\rightarrow g'_{\mu'\nu'}(x')=\frac{\partial x^{\alpha}}{\partial x^{\mu}'}\frac{\partial x^{\beta}}{\partial x^{\nu}'}g_{\alpha\beta}(x)[/tex]

which I understand well. But according to the textbook I'm reading the infitesimal result is:
[tex]\delta g_{\mu\nu}(x)=\epsilon_{\mu;\nu}+\epsilon_{\nu;\mu}[/tex]
(with covariant derivatives).

I have tried using:
[tex]\frac{\partial x^{\alpha}}{\partial x^{\mu}'}\simeq\delta_{\mu}^{\alpha}-\frac{\partial\epsilon^{\alpha}}{\partial x^{\mu}}+O(\epsilon^{2})[/tex]

to obtain:
[tex]\delta g_{\mu\nu}(x)=-g_{\mu\alpha}\partial_{\nu}\epsilon^{\alpha}-g_{\nu\alpha}\partial_{\mu}\epsilon^{\alpha}[/tex]

but I don't know how to obtain the textbook result.
Can someone clue me in on how to do it?

Thanks
 
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