Is the Expression Valid in Demonstrating a Poincare Algebra Commutator?

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SUMMARY

The expression ##x_p\partial_v\partial_u-x_v\partial_p\partial_u=0## is valid in demonstrating a Poincaré algebra commutator, as shown by the commutation of partial derivatives. The key result is that ##[P_u, P_v] = 0##, where ##P_u = \partial_u##. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing free indices versus dummy indices, clarifying that free indices must hold true for all values of ##u, p, v## and their corresponding values of ##x_p## and ##x_v##.

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  • Basic concepts of free and dummy indices in mathematical expressions
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binbagsss
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Homework Statement



Does ##x_p\partial_v\partial_u-x_v\partial_p\partial_u=0##

Homework Equations



I need this to be true to show a poincare algebra commutator.

We have just shown that ##[P_u, P_v] =0 ##, i.e. simply because partial derivatives commute.

Where ##P_u=\partial_u##

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
I'm guess it's using that partial derivatives commute and renaming the ##v## and ##p## for each other, however I'm a bit confused with this, because, I know this isn't really the context here, but these are free indicies not dummy indices, i..e not an index summing over, so I'm a bit unclear how you could simply rename.

Many thanks
 
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binbagsss said:

Homework Statement



Does ##x_p\partial_v\partial_u-x_v\partial_p\partial_u=0##

Homework Equations



I need this to be true to show a poincare algebra commutator.

We have just shown that ##[P_u, P_v] =0 ##, i.e. simply because partial derivatives commute.

Where ##P_u=\partial_u##

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
I'm guess it's using that partial derivatives commute and renaming the ##v## and ##p## for each other, however I'm a bit confused with this, because, I know this isn't really the context here, but these are free indicies not dummy indices, i..e not an index summing over, so I'm a bit unclear how you could simply rename.

Many thanks

Free indices means that it must be true for every possible choice of u,p,v, and for all possible values of x_p and x_v. So try the particular case where u,p,v are all different indices, and x_p = 0, and x_v \neq 0.
 

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