When are two spacetimes the same

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the relationship between two spacetimes described by distinct metrics and their foliations. It asserts that proving the foliations possess identical geometrical properties does not necessarily confirm that the spacetimes are equivalent, as different coordinate charts can represent the same metric. The distinction between metrics and coordinate charts is emphasized, highlighting the complexity of establishing equivalence in spacetimes. Participants seek sources or theorems that clarify these concepts further.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of differential geometry and metrics
  • Familiarity with the concept of foliations in spacetime
  • Knowledge of coordinate charts and their role in general relativity
  • Basic principles of general relativity and spacetime structure
NEXT STEPS
  • Research theorems related to metric equivalence in general relativity
  • Explore the concept of foliations in differential geometry
  • Study the implications of different coordinate charts on spacetime metrics
  • Investigate sources on the relationship between metrics and geometrical properties
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Researchers in theoretical physics, mathematicians specializing in differential geometry, and students of general relativity seeking to deepen their understanding of spacetime equivalence and metrics.

smallphi
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Suppose you have two spacetimes described by two metrics.

If I prove that they have foliations with the same geometrical properties, would that prove the spacetimes are actually the same only in different coordinates?

Has anyone seen a source with theorems of this type?
 
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smallphi said:
Suppose you have two spacetimes described by two metrics.

If I prove that they have foliations with the same geometrical properties, would that prove the spacetimes are actually the same only in different coordinates?

Has anyone seen a source with theorems of this type?
The first thing to distinguish is a metric from a coordinate chart. Different coordinate charts can refer to the same metric.
 

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