Analogue of Lorentz transformation in General Relativity.

In summary, there is no direct analogy between Lorentz transformation in General Relativity and curved space. However, using the concept of parallel transport, it is possible to devise a transformation between freely-falling frames in GR. This transformation is not a direct analogue of the Lorentz transformation, but rather a generalization that takes into account the curvature of space. Additionally, the length of the "world line" remains constant in any frame of reference.
  • #1
arroy_0205
129
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Can anybody tell me if there is anything analogous to Lorentz transformation in General Relativity (ie, in curved space)? If there is then what are the corresponding group generators and what is the corresponding algebra? I just wondered this question while reading about Lorentz group and I am not very if such analogy will exist in curved space. But may be using the concept of parallel transport such analogies may be made but that will be complicated.
 
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  • #2
As you know, the LT connects a special class of frames in SR. It seems the only possible set of special frames in GR are the freely-falling frames. Each FF observer can construct a local SR frame whose spatial axes are local null geodesics (in reality this frame may be limited in size by the local field). If we know the details of the space-time, it ought to be possible to devise a transformation that connects two such frames, but I don't know what it is or even if it exists.

[edit] Of course there's no reason whatever why two different FFFs should be inertial wrt to each other, so whatever transformation connects them will not look much like the LT.
 
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  • #3
Not an "analogue" but a "generalization". And that is that that the length of the "world line" is the same from any frame of reference.
 
  • #4
HallsofIvy,

Is there a general transformation between freely-falling frame coords ?

[tex]x_{\mu} \rightarrow x'_{\mu} = f(x_{\mu})[/tex]

I'm trying to work something out in Painleve-Gullstrand co-ords.

M
 
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FAQ: Analogue of Lorentz transformation in General Relativity.

What is the analogue of Lorentz transformation in General Relativity?

The analogue of Lorentz transformation in General Relativity is known as the coordinate transformation. It is a mathematical tool used to describe how coordinates and measurements change between different reference frames in curved spacetime. This allows us to understand the effects of gravity on the motion of objects.

How does the coordinate transformation differ from Lorentz transformation?

While Lorentz transformation deals with flat spacetime and the effects of relative motion, coordinate transformation is used in General Relativity to account for the curvature of spacetime caused by the presence of mass and energy. This results in a more complex and nonlinear transformation compared to Lorentz transformation.

Can the coordinate transformation be used to describe all types of motion in General Relativity?

Yes, the coordinate transformation can be used to describe all types of motion, including non-inertial motion, in General Relativity. This is because it takes into account the curvature of spacetime and allows us to calculate the effects of gravity on the motion of objects.

How is the coordinate transformation derived in General Relativity?

The coordinate transformation is derived from the Einstein field equations, which describe the relationship between the curvature of spacetime and the distribution of matter and energy. These equations are solved to obtain the metric tensor, which is then used to calculate the coordinate transformation.

What are some practical applications of the coordinate transformation in General Relativity?

The coordinate transformation is used in various applications, such as predicting the motion of planets and other celestial bodies, understanding the behavior of black holes, and correcting for the effects of gravity in GPS systems. It is also an important tool in studying the evolution of the universe and the behavior of gravitational waves.

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