Solving Symmetric Tensor: c\cdot (A \times b) \neq (A \times b) \cdot c

In summary, a symmetric tensor is a mathematical object used to describe relationships between quantities in a system. The equation "c\cdot (A \times b) \neq (A \times b) \cdot c" highlights the non-commutative nature of operations on symmetric tensors, reminding us to be careful when manipulating them. While the equation can be true in certain situations, it cannot be solved in the traditional sense and is instead used to gain a deeper understanding of symmetric tensors.
  • #1
germana2006
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Homework Statement



Demostrate:
[tex]c\cdot (A \times b) \neq (A \times b) \cdot c[/tex]

with [tex]A \in\Re^{3 \times 3}[/tex] is a symmetric Tensor of second order and [tex] b,c \in \Re^3 [/tex] are vectors

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



[tex] (A \times b)_ {ij} = A_{ij} \epsilon _{jkl} b_l [/tex]
 
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  • #2
Let's define another tensor [itex]T[/itex] by [itex]T_{ij}=(A \times b)_ {ij} = A_{ij} \epsilon _{jkl} b_l[/itex]...
what is [itex]c \cdot T[/itex] ?...how about [itex]T \cdot c[/itex] ?
 

Related to Solving Symmetric Tensor: c\cdot (A \times b) \neq (A \times b) \cdot c

1. What is a symmetric tensor?

A symmetric tensor is a mathematical object that describes the relationships between different quantities in a system. It is a higher-dimensional generalization of a matrix and is often used in physics and engineering to represent physical properties such as stress, strain, and elasticity.

2. What does the equation "c\cdot (A \times b) \neq (A \times b) \cdot c" mean?

This equation is a statement about the commutativity of the dot product and cross product operations on symmetric tensors. It means that in general, the order in which these operations are performed matters and can produce different results.

3. Why does the equation "c\cdot (A \times b) \neq (A \times b) \cdot c" matter?

This equation is important because it highlights the non-commutative nature of operations on symmetric tensors. It reminds us to be careful when manipulating these objects and to pay attention to the order of operations to ensure accurate results.

4. Can the equation "c\cdot (A \times b) \neq (A \times b) \cdot c" be true in any situation?

Yes, this equation can be true in certain situations where the involved tensors have specific properties. For example, if c is a scalar and A and b are orthogonal vectors, then the equation holds true. However, in general, the equation is not true for arbitrary symmetric tensors.

5. How can I solve the equation "c\cdot (A \times b) \neq (A \times b) \cdot c"?

The equation "c\cdot (A \times b) \neq (A \times b) \cdot c" cannot be solved in the traditional sense, as it is not an algebraic equation. However, we can use this equation to gain a deeper understanding of the properties of symmetric tensors and how they behave under different operations.

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