Calculating Lie Derivative for Metric Tensor with Given Coordinates and Vector

In summary: So in summary, the calculation of the Lie derivative of the metric tensor with the given metric and coordinates is straightforward since the vector field has a constant value of 1 in the time component. This results in the last two terms of the equation going to zero, leaving only the first term to calculate the Lie derivative.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



Calculate the lie derivative of the metric tensor, given the metric,

[itex]
g_{ab}=diag(-(1-\frac{2M}{r}),1-\frac{2M}{r},r^2,R^2sin^2\theta)
[/itex]

and coordinates (t,r,theta,phi)

given the vector

[itex]
E^i=\delta^t_0
[/itex]





Homework Equations



[itex]
(L_Eg)ab=E^cd_cg_{ab}+g_{cb}d_aE^c+g_{ac}d_bE^c
[/itex]


The Attempt at a Solution



[itex]
(L_Eg)ab=E^cd_cg_{ab}+g_{cb}d_aE^c+g_{ac}d_bE^c
[/itex]

all derivatives above being partial

Now the Last two terms go to zero, since E^i=Kronecker delta=constant and so its derivative is zero.

So,
[itex]
(L_Eg)ab=E^cd_cg_{ab}
[/itex]

[itex]
(L_Eg)ab=\delta^t_0 d_cg_{ab}
[/itex]

I'm unsure how to take it from here.

Firstly, I'm unsure what
[itex]
\delta^t_0
[/itex]

means. Does it means we get the result 1 at t=0 and zero for all other times?

How does it then affect the equation below.

[itex]
(L_Eg)ab=\delta^t_0 d_cg_{ab}
[/itex]

Please help.
 
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  • #2
anyone?
 
  • #3
I think what they meant to write is [itex]E^i=\delta^i_0[/itex] i.e. the vector field with a constant value 1 in the time component. So the Lie derivative is pretty trivial.
 
  • #4
Oh ok, so the 0 stands for the time component. That makes sense.
 

FAQ: Calculating Lie Derivative for Metric Tensor with Given Coordinates and Vector

What is a lie derivative?

A lie derivative is a mathematical tool used in differential geometry to measure how a geometric object changes along a given direction or flow. This concept was introduced by the mathematician Sophus Lie in the 19th century.

How is a lie derivative calculated?

The lie derivative of a geometric object is calculated by taking the directional derivative of the object along a given vector field. This involves taking the partial derivatives of the object's components and using the Lie bracket to combine them.

What is the significance of calculating a lie derivative?

Calculating a lie derivative allows us to study how a geometric object changes along a given flow or direction. This is important in fields such as physics, where the movement and transformation of objects are of interest.

Can a lie derivative be calculated for any type of geometric object?

Yes, a lie derivative can be calculated for any type of geometric object, including curves, surfaces, and higher-dimensional structures. However, the specific method for calculating the lie derivative may vary depending on the type of object.

What are some real-world applications of calculating lie derivatives?

Lie derivatives have applications in many fields, including mechanics, fluid dynamics, and general relativity. They can be used to study the behavior of physical systems, such as the movement of particles in a fluid or the curvature of spacetime in general relativity.

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