Wave equation given a cosmological inflationary metric

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around deriving the wave equation from a given cosmological inflationary metric, specifically the metric $$g_{μν}=diag(−e^{2a(t)},e^{2b(t)},e^{2b(t)},e^{2b(t)})$$. Participants explore the relationship between this metric and the resulting wave equation for a scalar field, as well as the connection to Bessel's equation.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks how to derive the wave equation from the provided metric and expresses confusion about the transition to Bessel's equation.
  • Another participant suggests using Einstein's equations with the stress-energy tensor of the scalar field to derive the necessary relations.
  • A subsequent reply reiterates the need for Einstein's equations and confirms that this approach will lead to the desired wave equation.
  • It is mentioned that substituting the provided metric will yield the Bessel equation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the necessity of using Einstein's equations to derive the wave equation, but the specific steps and clarity on the transition to Bessel's equation remain less clear and unresolved.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the assumptions or definitions needed to fully understand the derivation process, nor does it resolve the mathematical steps leading to the Bessel equation.

Nick2014
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Hi everybody!
Can you explain me how I can obtain wave equation given a metric? For example, if I have this metric $$g_{μν}=diag(−e^{2a(t)},e^{2b(t)},e^{2b(t)},e^{2b(t)})$$, how can derive the relation $$\frac{1}{\sqrt{g}}\partial _t(g^{00}\sqrt{g}\partial _t \phi)+\frac{1}{\sqrt{g}}g^{ii}\partial ^2 \phi$$ where ##\phi=\phi (t)## is a scalar field? Moreover, from this equation the professor has derived a Bessel's equation in the form u¨+ταu=0. I don't understand... Thanks
 
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You'd need to use Einstein's equations with the stress-energy tensor of the scalar field on the right hand side.
 
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Chalnoth said:
You'd need to use Einstein's equations with the stress-energy tensor of the scalar field on the right hand side.

And then, to obtain that relation?
 
That will give you the relation you've written down in your post. To get the Bessel equation, simply substitute in the metric you've been provided.
 
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OK, thanks :)
 

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