How to define the lower indexed tensor

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In summary, the conversation discusses a problem related to defining a lower indexed tensor in QC 8.4. The solution involves using two copies of the Minkowski metrics to lower the indices on the tensor. The correct Einstein notation is also mentioned.
  • #1
ehrenfest
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Homework Statement


Can someone help me with QC 8.4?
I am unsure
how to define the lower indexed tensor here. I have worked with upper and lower indices before but the relationship between the two has always just been given to me.

Let me know if you want to help but think that the attachment is too small to read.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 

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  • #2
I can't see the attempt yet. However, this problem is a forced march. Just multiply both sides of equation (8.51) by two copies of [itex]\eta[/itex] to lower the indices.
 
  • #3
I see:

[tex] \eta_{\beta \nu} \eta_{\alpha \mu} \epsilon ^{\mu \nu} = -\eta_{\alpha \mu} \eta_{\beta \nu} \epsilon ^{\nu \mu} [/tex]

And then 2 Minkowski metrics is just the identity matrix.

Is my Einstein notation correct?
 
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  • #4
ehrenfest said:
And then 2 Minkowski metrics is just the identity matrix.
Instead of multiplying the metrics together, use them to lower the indices on [itex]\epsilon[/itex].
For instance
[tex]\eta_{\beta\nu}\eta_{\alpha\mu}\epsilon^{\mu\nu} = \eta_{\alpha\mu}{\epsilon^{\mu}}_{\beta}[/tex]

ehrenfest said:
Is my Einstein notation correct?
Yes, but the equation you wrote is wrong. It is missing a minus sign on the r.h.s.
 
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  • #5
jimmysnyder said:
Instead of multiplying the metrics together, use them to lower the indices on [itex]\epsilon[/itex].
For instance
[tex]\eta_{\beta\nu}\eta_{\alpha\mu}\epsilon^{\mu\nu} = \eta_{\alpha\mu}{\epsilon^{\mu}}_{\alpha}[/tex]


Yes, but the equation you wrote is wrong. It is missing a minus sign on the r.h.s.

I see.


jimmysnyder said:
Yes, but the equation you wrote is wrong. It is missing a minus sign on the r.h.s.

Fixed it.
 
  • #6
I'm sorry Ehrenfest, my post #4 which you quoted is incorrect. I have edited it. Please use the edited post, not the one that you quoted.
 

FAQ: How to define the lower indexed tensor

What is a lower indexed tensor?

A lower indexed tensor is a type of mathematical object used in physics and engineering to represent physical quantities such as forces, velocities, and stress. It is a multi-dimensional array of numbers that is used to describe the relationships between different physical quantities.

How is a lower indexed tensor defined?

A lower indexed tensor is defined by its rank, which is the number of indices needed to specify each element of the tensor. It is also defined by its dimension, which is the number of components in each index. For example, a rank-2 tensor with dimension 3 would have 3 components in each index and would be represented as a 3x3 matrix.

What is the purpose of using lower indexed tensors?

The main purpose of using lower indexed tensors is to describe the relationships between physical quantities in a concise and efficient manner. They allow scientists to perform calculations and equations in a way that is consistent and easily understandable.

How are lower indexed tensors different from upper indexed tensors?

Lower indexed tensors are different from upper indexed tensors in terms of their transformation properties. Lower indexed tensors transform in a specific way under coordinate transformations, while upper indexed tensors transform in the inverse way. This distinction is important in understanding the physical meaning and applications of tensors.

Can lower indexed tensors be visualized?

Lower indexed tensors can be visualized in certain cases, such as in two or three dimensions. However, as the dimension and rank of the tensor increases, it becomes increasingly difficult to visualize. In these cases, mathematicians and scientists often use diagrams and other visual aids to represent and understand the tensor's properties and relationships.

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