Specific proof of the Riemann tensor for FRW metric

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving the Riemann tensor expression for the Friedmann-Robertson-Walker (FRW) metric, specifically Rijkl = k/R² * (gik gjl - gil gjk), where gik represents the 3-metric of the FRW universe and k can take values of 0, +1, or -1. Participants emphasize the necessity of deriving the Christoffel symbols and Riemann tensor definitions to approach the proof. The challenge lies in obtaining the general expression for the Christoffel symbols without utilizing Killing vectors, relying solely on the definitions provided.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Friedmann-Robertson-Walker (FRW) metric
  • Familiarity with Christoffel symbols in differential geometry
  • Knowledge of the Riemann tensor and its properties
  • Basic concepts of general relativity and cosmology
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of Christoffel symbols from the FRW metric
  • Explore the properties and applications of the Riemann tensor in general relativity
  • Investigate the role of Killing vectors in maximally symmetric spaces
  • Review the implications of different curvature constants (k = 0, +1, -1) in cosmological models
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in theoretical physics, particularly those focusing on general relativity, cosmology, and differential geometry, will benefit from this discussion.

Chromatic_Universe
Gold Member
Messages
12
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Prove Rijkl= k/R2 * (gik gjl-gil gjk) where gik is the 3 metric for FRW universe and K =0,+1,-1, and i,j=1,2,3, that is, spatial coordinates.
.

Homework Equations


The Christoffel symbol definition:
Γμνρ = ½gμσ(∂ρgνσ+∂νgρσ-∂σgνρ)
and the Riemann tensor definition:
Rμνσρ = ∂σΓμρν-∂ρΓμσνμσλΓλρνμρλΓλσν
and the FRLW metric, in the section:
Reduced-circumference polar coordinates (under general metric section)

The Attempt at a Solution


I cannot come to the general expression for the Christoffel symbols using g_ij. But the expression can be derived using Killing vectors for maximally symmetric space. For the FRW universe(homogeneous and isotropic), the same holds true, but I am finding it difficult to get to this expression without using Killing vectors, only using the definition of Christoffel symbols and Riemann tensors.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Chromatic_Universe said:

Homework Statement


Prove Rijkl= k/R2 * (gik gjl-gil gjk) where gik is the 3 metric for FRW universe and K =0,+1,-1
.

Homework Equations


The Christoffel symbol definition and the Riemann tensor definition

The Attempt at a Solution


I cannot come to the general expression for the Christoffel symbols using g_ij.

Well, to get started, can you write down the metric, and the definition of the Christoffel symbols and Riemann tensors? You have to show some work.
 
stevendaryl said:
Well, to get started, can you write down the metric, and the definition of the Christoffel symbols and Riemann tensors? You have to show some work.
Edited the question! Thanks!
 

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
4K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
951
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
10K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
4K