Vector field, and Lorentz Symmetry

In summary, rotational symmetry and boost symmetry are fundamental properties of the natural world that are crucial in physics. Together, they form the Lorentz group. Adding in the ability to move in different directions and at different times creates a larger group of symmetries, known as the Poincare group. Vector fields and vector field lines correspond to these symmetries, with the lines potentially curving on a plane of positive curvature.
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What are they?

"A fundamental property of the natural world that is of supreme importance for physics. It has two components: rotational symmetry, and boost symmetry." :confused:
 
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Do a physics experiment in an inertial frame. (Note: this disqualifies the surface of the Earth for some very sensitive experiments). Do it again, this time with your apparatus rotated by some angle theta, or phi. The fact that your results do not change with rotation is due to rotational symmetry of the laws of physics.

Now do the experiment again, this time in a second inertial frame, that's moving at a constant velocity relative to the first. The results of the experiment still do not change. This is because of the "boost" symmetry of physics.

Together, these symmetries are known as the Lorentz group.

If you add in the fact that you can move your apparatus N feet in any direction, or perform experiments at different times, and get the same results, you have a larger group of symmetries, known as the Poincare group.
 
  • #3
pervect said:
Do a physics experiment in an inertial frame. (Note: this disqualifies the surface of the Earth for some very sensitive experiments). Do it again, this time with your apparatus rotated by some angle theta, or phi. The fact that your results do not change with rotation is due to rotational symmetry of the laws of physics.

Now do the experiment again, this time in a second inertial frame, that's moving at a constant velocity relative to the first. The results of the experiment still do not change. This is because of the "boost" symmetry of physics.

Together, these symmetries are known as the Lorentz group.

If you add in the fact that you can move your apparatus N feet in any direction, or perform experiments at different times, and get the same results, you have a larger group of symmetries, known as the Poincare group.

Ahh! ok, thanks a lot. But what are vector fields, and vector field lines? Do they correspond to the angle rotated for rotational symmetry, and the way it object is moving in boost symmetry? If so, do the lines curve when on a plane of positive curvature?
 

1. What is a vector field?

A vector field is a mathematical concept used to represent a physical quantity that has both magnitude and direction at every point in space. This can include quantities such as velocity, electric and magnetic fields, and fluid flow.

2. How is a vector field represented?

A vector field can be represented graphically using arrows, with the length of the arrow indicating the magnitude and the direction indicating the direction of the quantity at that point. Alternatively, it can be represented as a function with multiple components, each representing the magnitude of the quantity in a specific direction.

3. What is Lorentz symmetry?

Lorentz symmetry is a fundamental principle in physics that states that the laws of physics should be the same for all observers in uniform motion, regardless of their relative velocity. This symmetry is a cornerstone of Einstein's theory of relativity and has been extensively tested and confirmed through experiments.

4. How is Lorentz symmetry related to vector fields?

Lorentz symmetry is closely related to vector fields, as it describes the invariance of physical laws under transformations of space and time. This means that the equations describing a vector field should remain the same for all observers, regardless of their relative motion. This has important implications for the behavior of vector fields in different frames of reference.

5. What are some applications of vector fields and Lorentz symmetry?

Vector fields and Lorentz symmetry have numerous applications in physics and engineering. They are used to model and understand a wide range of phenomena, including fluid dynamics, electromagnetism, and relativity. They also play a crucial role in technologies such as GPS, which rely on accurate measurements of vector fields and the principles of Lorentz symmetry to function.

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