Proving the Order of a Tensor: Transformation Laws and Quotient Theorem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves proving that the coefficients of a quadric surface equation are components of a second order tensor. The equation is given in terms of a matrix of coefficients and requires analysis under coordinate transformations, specifically rotations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the transformation of coordinates and how to express the relationship between the coefficients a'_i_j and a_i_j through the rotation matrix. There is uncertainty about how to manipulate the equations to show the required relationships.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into rewriting the transformed coordinates and identifying expressions that relate the coefficients. However, there remains a lack of clarity regarding the manipulation of the rotation matrix and the implications of the symmetry of the coefficients.

Contextual Notes

One participant notes the urgency of the assignment due date and the lack of peer support, indicating a constraint on collaborative learning opportunities.

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Homework Statement



The equation of a quadric surface takes the form

[tex]a_i_jx_ix_j = 1, a_i_j = a_j_i[/tex]

relative to the standard coordinate axes. Under a rotation of axes the equation of the surface becomes

[tex]a'_i_jx'_ix'_j = 1[/tex]

By considering the coordinates [tex]x_i[/tex] as components of position vectors, show that the coefficients [tex]a_i_j[/tex] are components of a second order tensor

(i) using transformation laws;
(ii) using the quotient theorem

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I need a bit of a kick-start on this one.
I'm guessing my objective will be to show that:

[tex]a'_i_j = l_i_ml_j_na_m_n[/tex] where [tex]l_i_j[/tex] is an entry in the matrix representing the rotation.

but it's not clear to me how to relate a, l and x.
 
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In the equation a'ijx'ix'j = 1, write x' in terms of x. In the resulting equation, can you identify an expressionis that must be equal to aij? This will tell you how aij are related to a'ij, i.e. how the components of a transform.
 
dx said:
In the equation a'ijx'ix'j = 1, write x' in terms of x. In the resulting equation, can you identify an expressionis that must be equal to aij? This will tell you how aij are related to a'ij, i.e. how the components of a transform.

Thanks for your response. Rewriting x' in terms of x I get:

[tex]a_i_j'x_i'x_j' = 1 => a_i_j'l_i_mx_ml_j_nx_n = 1 = a_m_nx_mx_n[/tex]
[tex]=> a_i_j'l_i_ml_j_n = a_m_n[/tex]

This is close, but it's not clear to me how to shuffle the elements of the rotation matrix L from the LHS to the RHS. I also suspect the symmetry of a was mentioned for a reason, and that it's likely that it suggests a property that I should be taking advantage of.
 
Would really appreciate some help on this. I'm studying remotely and have no other students to refer to, and the course tutor seems to be on extended leave. I have about 24 hours before the last mail pick-up to make the assignment due date. Any help fully appreciated.
 

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