Expansion of a trapped surface - clarification needed

In summary, the conversation discusses the topic of trapped surfaces and black holes, specifically looking at equations and definitions related to the topic. The main question raised is about the definition of Qab, and the conversation ends with the clarification that the correct equation is (2.28) in Eric Poisson's book.
  • #1
TomCurious
11
0

Homework Statement



I was just reading this article on the arXiv: http://arxiv.org/abs/0711.0313 , which discusses trapped surfaces and black holes.
There is a simple qualm I have, though, but it is persistent, and I cannot seem to come to terms with it.

Looking at equation's (1) and (2) of the document, we find (forgive me, I do not know latex:

Expansion along n = metric dually contracted with covariant derivative of one null vector +n*l*covariant derivative of n + l*n*covariant derivative of n,

where n and l are the two null vectors which are normal to the trapped surface.

Homework Equations



On the surface, we can reconstruct the metric as Qab = Gab + NaLa
(taken from Eric Poisson's book)

Expansion can easily be defined as the derivative of the cross-sectional area of the geodesic congruence, divided by the area. Going infinitesimal, and using some Differential Geometry, this is equivalent to the surface metric (Qab) fully contracted with the covariant derivative of one of null vectors.


The Attempt at a Solution



Perhaps the error lies in the definition, that is to say, Qab = Gab + NaLa + LaNa ? It is a fine point, but one that I cannot seem to find the answer to.
 
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  • #2
TomCurious said:
On the surface, we can reconstruct the metric as Qab = Gab + NaLa
(taken from Eric Poisson's book)

Where is this in Poisson's book?
TomCurious said:
Perhaps the error lies in the definition, that is to say, Qab = Gab + NaLa + LaNa ?

See equation (2.28) from (the hard-copy version of) Poisson's book.
 
  • #3
Oh, I see. Thank you very much! I was looking at equation (2.14) - my bad!
 

FAQ: Expansion of a trapped surface - clarification needed

What is the concept of "expansion of a trapped surface"?

The expansion of a trapped surface refers to the increase in the surface area of a region that is enclosed by a closed boundary. This expansion can occur in various physical systems, such as in black holes or in cosmological models, and is related to the dynamics of the system.

How is the expansion of a trapped surface measured?

The expansion of a trapped surface is typically measured using mathematical tools such as the Raychaudhuri equation or the Kodama vector. These methods involve calculating the change in the area of the surface over time, and can provide information about the growth or contraction of the trapped surface.

What is the significance of the expansion of a trapped surface in cosmology?

In cosmology, the expansion of a trapped surface is important for understanding the evolution of the universe. It can provide insights into the behavior of matter and energy as the universe expands, and can also help in predicting future outcomes of the expansion.

Are there any real-life applications of the expansion of a trapped surface?

The concept of expansion of a trapped surface has practical applications in fields such as astrophysics and gravitational physics. For example, it is used in the study of black holes and in the development of gravitational wave detectors.

Is there ongoing research on the expansion of a trapped surface?

Yes, there is ongoing research on the expansion of a trapped surface in various fields, including cosmology, astrophysics, and quantum gravity. Scientists continue to explore the implications and applications of this concept in order to deepen our understanding of the fundamental laws of the universe.

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