Tensor Indices Switch with Infinitesimals and Space-Time Derivatives

In summary, the conversation is discussing the validity of dropping and raising the u index in an expression involving infinitesimals and space-time derivatives without involving the metric tensor. It is confirmed that this is valid through the use of a double dot-product.
  • #1
waht
1,501
4
Wondering if this is valid to do, if I start with the expression

[tex] \delta\omega^{u}_{ \singlespacing v} x^v \partial_u [/tex]

where [itex] \delta\omega [/itex] is an infinitesimal, and [itex] \partial [/itex] a space-time derivative,

is it still valid to drop and raise the u to obtain

[tex] \delta\omega_{u v} x^v \partial^u [/tex]

without involving the metric tensor?
 
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  • #2
waht said:
Wondering if this is valid to do, if I start with the expression

[tex] \delta\omega^{u}_{ \singlespacing v} x^v \partial_u [/tex]

where [itex] \delta\omega [/itex] is an infinitesimal, and [itex] \partial [/itex] a space-time derivative,

is it still valid to drop and raise the u to obtain

[tex] \delta\omega_{u v} x^v \partial^u [/tex]

without involving the metric tensor?

Hi waht! :smile:

Yes, it's just a (double) dot-product:

[tex] \delta\omega^{u}_{ \singlespacing v} x^v \partial_u [/tex]

[tex]=\ \delta\omega_{w\singlespacing v}g^u_w x^v \partial_u [/tex]

[tex]=\ \delta\omega_{w\singlespacing v} x^v \partial_w [/tex] :smile:
 
  • #3
Thanks Tim, that cleared it up.
 

What is a tensor indicies switch?

A tensor indicies switch is a mathematical operation used to rearrange the indices of a tensor, which is a multi-dimensional array of numbers. This operation is often used in physics and engineering to simplify equations and calculations.

Why is a tensor indicies switch useful?

A tensor indicies switch can make tensor equations easier to understand and solve by rearranging the indices in a more convenient way. It can also help identify patterns and symmetries in the data represented by the tensor.

How is a tensor indicies switch performed?

A tensor indicies switch involves swapping the indices of a tensor according to a specific rule. This rule depends on the type of tensor and the desired outcome. In general, the indices are rearranged using the Einstein summation convention, which involves summing over repeated indices.

What are some common applications of a tensor indicies switch?

Tensor indicies switch is commonly used in physics and engineering, particularly in fields such as quantum mechanics, general relativity, and fluid dynamics. It can also be used in computer science and machine learning for data manipulation and analysis.

Are there any limitations or drawbacks to using a tensor indicies switch?

One limitation of a tensor indicies switch is that it can only be applied to tensors with a specific number of indices. Additionally, the resulting rearranged tensor may not always have physical or meaningful interpretations, depending on the specific problem being solved. It also requires a good understanding of tensor algebra and its conventions.

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