What is the Meaning of δ in δΓ?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the meaning of the symbol δ in the context of the Christoffel symbol Γ, exploring its various interpretations in mathematics and physics.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that δ represents the differential of a path function, contrasting it with d, which denotes the differential of a state function.
  • Others mention the Kronecker delta as a potential meaning of δ, describing it as a function of two variables that equals 1 when the variables are equal and 0 otherwise.
  • One participant expresses confusion regarding the multiple meanings of δ, indicating that it can represent different concepts in mathematics.
  • A later reply emphasizes the need for more context to provide a definitive answer regarding the meaning of δ.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the meaning of δ, as multiple interpretations are presented, and confusion remains regarding its application.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the ambiguity of the symbol δ, noting that its meaning can vary depending on the context in which it is used.

AleksanderPhy
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Hello I have seen this symbol in many equations it looks like this:δΓ. I know that Γ means (that is Cristoffel symbol) but I don't know what δ means. Does anybody know?
 
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Differential of a path function is δ...Differential of a state function is d...
 
AleksanderPhy said:
Hello I have seen this symbol in many equations it looks like this:δΓ. I know that Γ means (that is Cristoffel symbol) but I don't know what δ means. Does anybody know?

[1] " In mathematics, the Kronecker delta (named after Leopold Kronecker) is a function of two variables, usually just positive integers. The function is 1 if the variables are equal, and 0 otherwise:
δ i j = { 0 if i ≠ j , 1 if i = j . {\displaystyle \delta _{ij}={\begin{cases}0&{\text{if }}i\neq j,\\1&{\text{if }}i=j.\end{cases}}} https://wikimedia.org/api/rest_v1/media/math/render/svg/904297d67d13919327bab9243517aef32e96c550
where the Kronecker delta δij is a piecewise function of variables i and j. For example, δ1 2 = 0, whereas δ3 3 = 1."
Note: this did not copy and paste properly. " {\displaystyle \delta _{ij}={\begin{cases}0&{\text{if }}i\neq j,\\1&{\text{if }}i=j.\end{cases}}}" See the referenced link.

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kronecker_delta
 
but i m sure differential of path function is also δ
 
It has several meanings, like any other symbol used in maths.
 
hmmm...thats it...its quite confusing...
 
Many thanks I thought so that it was Kronecker delta
 
It is impossible to give you an answer to this question without more information and context.
 

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