Eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the momentum current density dyadic

In summary, the conversation discusses the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the momentum current density dyadic \overleftrightarrow{T} (Maxwell tensor). The equations for \overleftrightarrow{T} and U are also given. The solution involves finding the determinant and trace of \overleftrightarrow{T} using its eigenvalues. The process involves expanding the tensor and simplifying the resulting equation.
  • #1
m3mb3r
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Homework Statement



What are the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the momentum
current density dyadic [tex]\overleftrightarrow{T}[/tex] (Maxwell tensor)? Then make use of these eigenvalues in finding the determinant of [tex]\overleftrightarrow{T}[/tex] and the trace of [tex]\overleftrightarrow{T}^2[/tex]

Homework Equations



[tex]\overleftrightarrow{T}=\overleftrightarrow{1}U-\frac{1}{4\pi}(\overrightarrow{E}\overrightarrow{E}+\overrightarrow{B}\overrightarrow{B})[/tex]
[tex]U=\frac{1}{8\pi}(\overrightarrow{|E}|^{2}+|\overrightarrow{B|^{2}})[/tex]


The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]

\overleftrightarrow{T}x=\lambda x[/tex]

[tex]det(\overleftrightarrow{T}-\overleftrightarrow{1}\lambda)=0[/tex]

[tex]
det\left(\begin{array}{ccc}
T_{11}-\lambda & T_{12} & T_{13}\\
T_{21} & T_{22}-\lambda & T_{23}\\
T31 & T_{32} & T_{33}-\lambda\end{array}\right)=0 [/tex]

Since the tensor is symmetric, we have [tex]T_{ij}=T_{ji}[/tex], (after simplifying) our equation become:

[tex]-\lambda^{3}+(T_{11}+T_{22}+T_{33})\lambda^{2}+(T_{12}^{2}+T_{23}^{2}+T_{31}^{2}-T_{11}T_{22}-T_{22}T_{33}-T_{33}T_{11})\lambda+T_{11}T_{22}T_{33}+2T_{12}T_{23}T_{31}-T_{11}T_{23}^{2}-T_{22}T_{31}^{2}-T_{33}T_{12}^{2}=0[/tex]

with [tex]T_{ij}=\delta_{ij}U-\frac{1}{4\pi}(E_{i}E_{j}+B_{i}B_{j})[/tex] (from the definition of [tex]\overleftrightarrow{T})[/tex]

The problem is that as I expand [tex]T_{ij}[/tex] the equation become more and more complicated. Am I doing the right thing here?
And later how to find the determinant of [tex]\overleftrightarrow{T}[/tex] and the trace of [tex]\overleftrightarrow{T}^2[/tex] after obtaining the eigenvalue?

Thanks
 
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  • #2
Anybody got any idea?
 

FAQ: Eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the momentum current density dyadic

What are eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the momentum current density dyadic?

Eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the momentum current density dyadic are mathematical concepts used to analyze the behavior of quantum particles. The momentum current density dyadic is a mathematical matrix that describes the flow of momentum in a quantum system. Eigenvalues represent the possible values of momentum that a particle can have, while eigenvectors represent the direction in which the momentum is flowing.

How are eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the momentum current density dyadic calculated?

To calculate the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the momentum current density dyadic, one must use the mathematical operation known as diagonalization. This involves finding the set of values and vectors that satisfy a specific equation, known as the eigenvalue equation, that relates the matrix of the dyadic to its eigenvalues and eigenvectors.

What is the significance of eigenvalues and eigenvectors in quantum mechanics?

Eigenvalues and eigenvectors play a crucial role in quantum mechanics as they provide information about the behavior of quantum particles. They allow scientists to calculate the probabilities of a particle having a certain momentum and direction, which is essential in understanding the behavior of particles at the quantum level.

Can the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the momentum current density dyadic change over time?

Yes, the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the momentum current density dyadic can change over time, especially in dynamic quantum systems. As the system evolves, the values and vectors may change, reflecting the changes in the momentum flow of the particles.

Are the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the momentum current density dyadic always real numbers?

No, the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the momentum current density dyadic can be complex numbers in some cases. This is particularly true for systems with symmetries, where the eigenvalues and eigenvectors may have both real and imaginary components. However, in most cases, they are real numbers and can be interpreted as the magnitude and direction of the momentum flow in a system.

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