Notation Convention: Primes in Coordinate Transformations

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the notation conventions for representing tensors in coordinate transformations, specifically the placement of the prime symbol. Two common representations are identified: placing the prime after the index (x^{\mu'}) and placing it before (x'^{\mu} or x^{\mu}{'}). The consensus indicates that the more prevalent convention is to place the prime on the index, as it clearly denotes which indices have been transformed to a new frame, enhancing clarity in tensor representation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of tensor notation in physics
  • Familiarity with coordinate transformations
  • Knowledge of four-vectors and their representations
  • Basic principles of mathematical notation conventions
NEXT STEPS
  • Research tensor notation conventions in advanced physics texts
  • Explore coordinate transformation techniques in relativity
  • Study the implications of notation on tensor calculus
  • Examine examples of tensor transformations in different frames
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, mathematicians, and students studying advanced topics in tensor analysis and coordinate transformations will benefit from this discussion.

Steely Dan
Messages
319
Reaction score
0
I have seen in various locations different conventions regarding the location of a prime symbol denoting a tensor represented in a new frame. For example, if the position four-vector is

[tex]x^{\mu}[/tex]

then this four-vector in a different frame is often written as either

[tex]x'^{\mu}[/tex]
or
[tex]x^{\mu}{'}[/tex]

Is there a recommended convention for this, or better yet, is one of them substantially more common than the other?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
I think the more common convention is to put primes on indices, like so:

[tex]x^{\mu'}[/tex]

This way, it is clear exactly which indices have been transformed to a new frame.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • · Replies 101 ·
4
Replies
101
Views
7K
  • · Replies 51 ·
2
Replies
51
Views
5K
  • · Replies 40 ·
2
Replies
40
Views
6K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K