Values of ##k## for which ##A_{ij}A_{ij} = |\vec a|^2##?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the values of ##k## for which the equation ##A_{ij}A_{ij} = |\vec a|^2## holds true, where the antisymmetric tensor is defined as ##A_{ij} = k\varepsilon_{ijk}a_k##. The solution attempts to simplify the expression using the identity ##\varepsilon_{ijk}\varepsilon_{klm} = \delta_{il}\delta_{jm}-\delta_{im}\delta_{jl}##, ultimately leading to an incorrect conclusion of zero. The error arises from misapplying the summation convention, specifically regarding the term ##\delta_{jj}##, which should contribute a factor of 3 instead of being disregarded.

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Incand
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Homework Statement


The antisymmetric tensor is constructed from a vector ##\vec a## according to ##A_{ij} = k\varepsilon_{ijk}a_k##.
For which values of ##k## is ##A_{ij}A_{ij} = |\vec a|^2##?

Homework Equations


Identity
##\varepsilon_{ijk}\varepsilon_{klm} = \delta_{il}\delta_{jm}-\delta_{im}\delta_{jl}##

The Attempt at a Solution


##A_{ij}A_{ij} = k^2\varepsilon_{ijk}\varepsilon_{ijm}a_ka_m = k^2\varepsilon_{jki}\varepsilon_{ijm}a_ka_m = k^2(\delta_{jj}\delta_{km}-\delta_{jm}\delta_{kj})a_ka_m = k^2(\delta_{km}-\delta_{km})a_ka_m =0##
Which I obviously shouldn't get but I can't see where I'm making an error.
 
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You are using the summation convention, so
$$\delta_{jj} \equiv \sum_{j=1}^3 \delta_{jj}.$$
This gives a different numerical factor in front of the first ##\delta_{km}## term.
 
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fzero said:
You are using the summation convention, so
$$\delta_{jj} \equiv \sum_{j=1}^3 \delta_{jj}.$$
This gives a different numerical factor in front of the first ##\delta_{km}## term.
Right thanks!
 

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