Deriving the commutation relations of the Lie algebra of Lorentz group

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on deriving the commutation relations of the Lorentz group's Lie algebra, specifically [J_m, J_n] and [J_m, K_n]. Participants seek clarification on the steps involved in the derivation, particularly regarding the Levi-Cevita symbol and its relationship with the Kronecker delta. There is a consensus that the indices used denote spatial (roman letters) and time plus spatial (greek letters) components, with a preference for a mostly minus metric. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the symmetry properties of the generators to simplify calculations involving the commutators. Overall, the thread aims to assist those new to the topic in grasping the mathematical framework of the Lorentz group.
bella987
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Homework Statement
Find commutation relations for Lorentz group
Relevant Equations
See below.
This is the defining generator of the Lorentz group
1_Q.png

which is then divided into subgroups for rotations and boosts
2_Q.png

And I then want to find the commutation relation [J_m, J_n] (and [J_m, K_n] ). I'm following this derivation, but am having a hard time to understand all the steps:
Skjermbilde 2023-04-09 130023.png

especially between here and the following step
4_Q.png

Could someone explain to someone just getting familiar with the Levi-Cevita symbol and its Kronecker delta dependence, what exactly is going on from step to step here? I would be so grateful!!
 
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Indices with roman letters are spatial right, and greek time + spatial?
What definition of minkowski metric you have? Diag(+,-,-,-) or Diag(-,+,+,+)?
 
Hmm, the greek letters are definitely time + spatial, but in the second included equation we divide the 6 generators into three spatial ones (rotations) and three temporal ones (boosts), so the roman ones are used when seperating them like that.
And it's mostly minus metric.
 
Ok, great.
Well that is the first step. ##g_{\alpha \gamma}## becomes ##- \delta_{ac}##.
1681042905024.png


Do you know anything about the ##\mathcal{L}## i.e. are they symmetric or anti-symmetric? This will help you simplify identities with kroneckers and levi-civitas.

Use
1681042861128.png

and calculate the commutator
1681042891053.png

show first that this equals
1681042925729.png

just by replacing ##g## with kroeckers and using the defining commutation amongs ##\mathcal{L}##.

As per the forum rules, you must show your attempt at a solution. "I do not understand" is not enough.
 

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