What is the definition of trace for n-indexed tensor in group theory?

In summary, the conversation discusses the decomposition of a 2 index tensor for rotation groups and the conditions placed on its transformation based on the invariance of the trace. It also touches on the possibility of creating a symmetric traceless 3 index tensor by subtracting a quantity that transforms like a vector, and the definition of trace for an n-indexed tensor. The use of addition of angular momentum and Clebach-Gordan coefficients are mentioned in relation to the transformation of tensors.
  • #1
dontknow
8
1
TL;DR Summary
Reducing Representations of tensors
I was reading zee's group theory in a nutshell.
I understand that we can decompose a 2 index tensor for rotation group into an antisymmetric vector(3), symmetric traceless tensor(5) and a scalar(trace of the tensor). Because "trace is invariant" it put a condition on the transformation of symmetric tensor elements, reduces it further from dimension from 6 to 5. But when we go for 3-index tensor and try to take a trace with 2 dimension Kronecker delta, we don't get an invariant quantity (like trace(scalar) for 2 index tensor). Can we really make a "symmetric traceless" 3 index tensor by subtracting a quantity which kind of transform like a vector?
What's the definition of trace for n indexed tensor (if possible specify reasons)?
Sorry for not posting any mathematical equation.
Thanks in advance
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
For rotations in three dimensions one can use addition of angular momentum. Let a vector be one unit of angular momentum, ##\mathbf{1}##. The two index tensors looks like.

##\mathbf{1}\otimes \mathbf{1} = \mathbf{0} \oplus \mathbf{1} \oplus \mathbf{2}##

where ##\mathbf{1}## transforms like a vector and ##\mathbf{2}## is your trace free symmetric tensor. This all follows from the Clebach-Gordan coefficients. So, just add an additional vector to the above to get the three index tensors. Clearly the only way to get a scalar in the three index case is to add a vector to the ##\mathbf{1}## representation above. There may be more than one way to do this since the order in which one couples the indices may be important.
 

1. What is a symmetric traceless tensor?

A symmetric traceless tensor is a mathematical object that represents a linear transformation between two vector spaces. It is symmetric if it remains unchanged when its components are interchanged, and it is traceless if the sum of its diagonal elements is equal to zero.

2. What are the properties of a symmetric traceless tensor?

Some properties of a symmetric traceless tensor include: it has equal eigenvalues, its determinant is zero, and it can be diagonalized by an orthogonal transformation.

3. How is a symmetric traceless tensor used in physics?

Symmetric traceless tensors are commonly used in physics to describe physical quantities such as stress, strain, and electromagnetic fields. They are also used in general relativity to describe the curvature of spacetime.

4. How is a symmetric traceless tensor different from a symmetric tensor?

A symmetric traceless tensor is a specific type of symmetric tensor that has the additional property of being traceless. This means that it has a zero sum of diagonal elements, while a general symmetric tensor does not necessarily have this property.

5. What is the significance of the traceless property in a symmetric traceless tensor?

The traceless property in a symmetric traceless tensor is significant because it simplifies the mathematical equations and makes them easier to solve. It also has physical significance, as it represents a balance between the positive and negative components of the tensor, resulting in a net zero effect.

Similar threads

  • Linear and Abstract Algebra
Replies
1
Views
918
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Linear and Abstract Algebra
Replies
5
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
22
Views
2K
  • Linear and Abstract Algebra
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • Differential Geometry
Replies
3
Views
6K
  • General Math
Replies
6
Views
993
Back
Top