Transformation of vector components

In summary, the components of a vector ##v## in two coordinate systems, ##x## and ##x'##, are related via ##v'^\mu = \frac{\partial x'^\mu}{\partial x^\sigma}v^\sigma##. When evaluating this at a specific ##x'(x_0) \equiv x'_0##, there is no difference in evaluating ##v'^\mu(x'_0) = \frac{\partial x'^\mu}{\partial x^\sigma}(x_0)v^\sigma(x_0)## or ##v'^\mu(x'_0) = (\frac{\partial x'^\mu}{\partial x^\sigma}v^\sigma)(x_0
  • #1
kent davidge
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The components of a vector ##v## are related in two coordinate systems via ##v'^\mu = \frac{\partial x'^\mu}{\partial x^\sigma}v^\sigma##. When evaluating this at a specific ##x'(x_0) \equiv x'_0##, how should we proceed? ##v'^\mu(x'_0) = \frac{\partial x'^\mu}{\partial x^\sigma}(x_0)v^\sigma(x_0)## or ##v'^\mu(x'_0) = (\frac{\partial x'^\mu}{\partial x^\sigma}v^\sigma)(x_0)##?

That is, should we first work out the sum of the functions and then evaluate the product? Or can we evaluate each separately?
 
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  • #2
I do not see difference. Do they differ ?
 
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  • #3
anuttarasammyak said:
I do not see difference. Do they differ ?
Not in general, I think. However you might get into trouble if the Jacobian ##\frac{\partial x'^\mu}{\partial x^\nu}## or the components ##v^\sigma## have some weird behaviour at ##x_0##, but so that yet their combination is a function that is fine there.
 
  • #4
I interpret the two,
[tex]F(x_0)G(x_o)=[F(x)G(x)]_{x=x_0}[/tex]
The both share weirdness if any.
 
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1. What is the transformation of vector components?

The transformation of vector components refers to the process of converting a vector from one coordinate system to another. This is done by applying a set of mathematical equations that take into account the differences between the two coordinate systems.

2. Why is it important to transform vector components?

Transforming vector components is important because it allows us to analyze and understand vectors in different coordinate systems. This is particularly useful in fields such as physics and engineering, where different coordinate systems are often used to describe the same physical phenomena.

3. How is the transformation of vector components calculated?

The transformation of vector components is calculated using a set of equations that take into account the differences between the two coordinate systems. The specific equations used may vary depending on the type of vector and the specific coordinate systems involved.

4. What are some common coordinate systems used in vector transformation?

Some common coordinate systems used in vector transformation include Cartesian coordinates, polar coordinates, and spherical coordinates. Each of these coordinate systems has its own set of equations for transforming vector components.

5. Can vector components be transformed between any two coordinate systems?

Yes, vector components can be transformed between any two coordinate systems as long as the equations for the transformation are known. However, some coordinate systems may be more complex and require more advanced mathematical techniques for transformation.

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