Prove the following identities using index notation

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving identities using index notation in the context of vectors and second-order tensors. The original poster presents multiple problems, including vector cross and dot products, tensor traces, and properties of skew symmetric tensors.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to prove identities involving vectors and tensors using index notation, raising questions about the transpose operation and properties of the permutation tensor.
  • Some participants provide feedback on the original poster's attempts, confirming the correctness of certain steps and suggesting further exploration of tensor properties.
  • There are expressions of frustration regarding the complexity of tensor concepts and a call for more engagement from other participants.

Discussion Status

Some guidance has been offered regarding the cyclic properties of the permutation tensor and the formulation of tensor products. The original poster's attempts have been acknowledged, but there is no explicit consensus on the solutions or methods being discussed.

Contextual Notes

The original poster is working under homework constraints that may limit the use of external resources or collaborative problem-solving. There are indications of confusion regarding specific tensor operations and properties, particularly in relation to skew symmetric tensors.

ponjavic
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I hope no one minds but I'm going to keep all my questions and solutions here and then write it down for the report =)

Homework Statement


1 Prove the following identities using index notation:
a) For vectors, u, v, w,
(u cross v) dot w = u dot (v cross w) XsolvedX

b)
For two second order tensors, show that trace(AB) = trace(BA) using index notation

c)
For two second order tensors, show that trace(AB) = trace(BA) using index notation
(AB)^t = B^t A^t

2 Consider a tensor V and a vector w related as follows
V_kj = e_ijk*w_i

a) Write out V as a 3 x 3 matrix

b) Show, using index notation, that V is a skew symmetric tensor (V = -V^t)

c) Show, using index notation or otherwise, that for any vector, v,
Vv = w x v

d) Show, using index notation, that the vector w is written in terms of V by,
w_i = 1/2 * e_ijk * V_kj

The vector w is known as the vector dual of the skew symmetric tensor V

Note: For part (d) you may make use of one or the both identities:
e_ijk * e_ipq = delta_jp * delta_kq - delta_kp * delta_jq
e_ijk * e_jkr = e_ijk * e_rjk = 2delta_ir

Homework Equations


a)
(u dot v) = uivj
(u cross v) = eijkujvk
(eijk is the permutation tensor)

b)
trace(A) = Aii

The Attempt at a Solution


(u cross v) dot w= eijkujvk * wi =
eijkwiujvk =
ejkiuivjwk =
(as eijk = ejki) number of permutations are even:
eijkvjwk * ui=
u dot (v cross w)

solved

b)
trace(AB) = trace(ABij) = trace(AikBkj) = AikBki = BkiAik = trace(BkiAjk) =
trace(BAij) = trace(BA)

c)
A=Aik, A^t = Aki
B=Bkj, B^t = Bjk
(AB)^t = (AikBkj)^t .. not quite sure how the transpose operation would work on a multiplication

2
a)
V_kj =
w1, w1, w1
w2, w2, w2
w3, w3, w3

No idea what to do with e_ijk...

b)
For A to be skew symmetric, A^t = -A

V_kj^t = ... Do not know how to transpose e_ijk * w_i
possibly: e_ikj * w_k
Then permutation k <-> j:
-e_ijk * w_k = -V_kj

Is this allowed?
 
Last edited:
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a) your cyclic permuttation of ijk is correct because e_ijk is invarinat ulnder cyclic permutation.

b) recall (AB)_ij=AikBkj. Now the trace sets i=j and sums.
 
edit: check first post
 
Last edited:
Comon people I'm really struggling with this, no one done tensors?
 
ponjavic said:
Comon people I'm really struggling with this, no one done tensors?

Sorry, I forgot that we were at your beck and call :rolleyes:
 
cristo said:
Sorry, I forgot that we were at your beck and call :rolleyes:
Helpful, I hope you can do tensors and aren't just wasting my time
 
For (c) you know how to write a product, you know how to write a transpose, and so you should be able to write the transpose of that product.

The parts you've answered from 2 look correct.
 

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