Proving the weyl tensor is zero problem

In summary, in order for Robertson-Walker models to be conformally flat, the Weyl tensor must vanish. The attempt at a solution involves substituting values for the Ricci tensor and scalar, which leads to an expression containing the Riemann tensor. The next step would be to use the definitions of the tensors to derive the forms for the Ricci tensor and scalar, and verify if they match with the given metric.
  • #1
Airsteve0
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Homework Statement


Show that all Robertson - Walker models are conformally flat.


Homework Equations


Robertson Walker Metric: [itex]ds^{2}=a^{2}(t)\left(\frac{dr^{2}}{1-Kr^{2}}+r^{2}(d\theta^{2}+(sin\theta)^{2}d\phi^{2} )\right)-dt^{2}[/itex]

Ricci Tensor: [itex]R_{\alpha\beta}=2Kg_{\alpha\beta}[/itex]

Ricci Scalar: [itex]R=8K[/itex]

Weyl Tensor: [itex]C_{\alpha\beta\gamma\delta}=R_{\alpha\beta\gammaδ}-\frac{1}{2}(g_{\alpha\gamma}R_{\beta\delta}-g_{\alpha\delta}R_{\beta\gamma}-g_{\beta\gamma}R_{\alpha\delta}+g_{\beta\delta}R_{\alpha\gamma}) + \frac{R}{6}(g_{\alpha\gamma}g_{\beta\delta}-g_{\alpha\delta}g_{\beta\gamma})[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution


In order for the models to be conformally flat the weyl tensor must vanish, therefore that is what I have tried to show. By subbing in the values for the Ricci tensor and the Ricci scalar (both of which were given in a lecture by my professor) I arrived at the following expression:

[itex]C_{\alpha\beta\gammaδ}=R_{\alpha\beta\gamma\delta}-\frac{2}{3}K(g_{\alpha\gamma}g_{\beta\delta}-g_{\alpha\delta}g_{\beta\gamma})[/itex]

However, as you can see I am left with the Riemann tensor undefined and I cannot show the weyl tensor to be zero. Any help is greatly appreciated, thanks!
 
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  • #2
I'm pretty sure your textbook contains the definition of the Riemann tensor, and of the other tensors. Look it up. (You will only need to know the metric to calculate it.) Then, the Ricci tensor is related to the Riemann one through
[itex]R_{ij} = R^k_{\, ikj} [/itex],
and, finally, the Ricci scalar is simply the trace of the Ricci tensor.

So well, I'd recommend you start working from the definitions. It is probably more instructive to derive those forms of the Ricci tensor and scalar yourself, and see if you get the same forms for this specific metric.
 

What is the Weyl tensor?

The Weyl tensor is a mathematical concept used in general relativity to describe the curvature of space-time. It represents the part of the curvature that is not caused by the distribution of matter and energy.

Why is proving the Weyl tensor is zero important?

Proving the Weyl tensor is zero is important because it would confirm the validity of the Einstein field equations, the cornerstone of general relativity. It would also provide evidence that our current understanding of the universe is correct.

What has been done to try to solve the problem?

Many scientists have attempted to prove the Weyl tensor is zero, but it remains an unsolved problem. Some approaches include using conformal transformations, studying the symmetries of the Weyl tensor, and using numerical simulations.

What are the implications if the Weyl tensor is not zero?

If the Weyl tensor is not zero, it would mean that there is a source of curvature in the universe that we have not yet discovered. This could have significant implications for our understanding of gravity and the structure of the universe.

What would be the significance of proving the Weyl tensor is zero?

If the Weyl tensor is proven to be zero, it would provide further confirmation of Einstein's theory of general relativity and support our current understanding of the universe. It could also lead to advancements in our understanding of gravity and the nature of space-time.

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