How Is the Volume of SU(2) Calculated?

In summary, the question is asking for the volume of the group SU(2) and the attempt at a solution mentions using a parameterization to define coordinates on the 3-sphere or constructing a volume form using a Lie-algebra valued 1-form. The poster is also looking for more information on the relationship between U(n)/U(n-1) and spheres, specifically for U(n)=S2n-1 and U(1)=2∏. They are asking for any references that may provide more information on this topic.
  • #1
eko_n2
4
0

Homework Statement



Compute the volume of the group SU(2)

Homework Equations



Possibly related: in a previous part of the problem I showed that any element

[itex]g = cos(\theta) + i \hat{n} \cdot \vec{\sigma}sin(\theta)[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution



How do I compute the infinitesimal volume element dV?
 
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  • #2
There are a few ways to do this, but it depends on where you are coming from, type of course, etc. If you know that ##SU(2)=S^3##, you can use your parameterization to define coordinates on the 3-sphere as imbedded in ##\mathbb{R}^4##. If you know some more geometry, you could construct the Lie-algebra valued 1-form ##\omega = g^{-1} dg## and then use that to construct a volume form.

In order to be more helpful (within the rules of the forum that say only give hints), you'd have to be more precise about what you already know.
 
  • #3
I have heard somewhere(I don't remember where) that
U(n)/U(n-1)=S2n-1,where Sn is n dimensional sphere embedded in Rn+1.With U(1)=2∏ one can go on for simple manipulation to get U(n).But I can not go for any book which contain any information about this.May be someone can provide any reference.
 

FAQ: How Is the Volume of SU(2) Calculated?

What is the group SU(2)?

The group SU(2) is a mathematical concept in the field of group theory. It is a special unitary group of degree 2, meaning it consists of 2x2 complex matrices with a determinant of 1. It has important applications in physics, particularly in quantum mechanics and particle physics.

How do you compute the volume of group SU(2)?

The volume of a group is a measure of its size or cardinality. In the case of SU(2), the volume can be calculated using the Haar measure, which is a way of assigning a volume to each element of the group. This measure takes into account the symmetries and invariances of the group, resulting in a unique and well-defined volume for SU(2).

What are the practical applications of computing the volume of group SU(2)?

The volume of group SU(2) has important implications in physics, particularly in studying the behavior of particles and systems at the quantum level. It is also useful in understanding symmetries and patterns in mathematical structures, as well as in cryptography and coding theory.

Is it possible to compute the volume of group SU(2) analytically?

Yes, it is possible to compute the volume of group SU(2) analytically using the Haar measure. However, for larger groups, the computations can become very complex and may require numerical methods to obtain an accurate result.

Are there any alternative methods for computing the volume of group SU(2)?

Yes, there are alternative methods for computing the volume of group SU(2), such as using Monte Carlo simulations or approximations based on group representations. These methods may be more practical for larger groups or in cases where an analytical solution is not feasible.

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