Invariants in general relativity

In summary, the conversation discussed the existence of invariants in general relativity and the calculation of the momentum in special relativity using the Lagrangian. It was mentioned that any tensor that is identically zero is invariant in GR. The conversation also touched on building a Lie group and defining the Lie product. It was noted that the Hamiltonian formalism for GR requires other variables and that there are different notations for the elements of the metric. The calculation of momentum in special relativity was explained using the formula \pi_{\mu\nu}=:\frac{\partial \mathcal{L}}{\partial^{0}g^{\mu\nu}} and it was noted that "t" refers to time.
  • #1
eljose
492
0
do invariants in general relativity exist? i mean quantity J so [tex]\frac{dJ}{dt}=0[/tex]...

another question let suppose we take the Lie gorup of [tex]g_ab,\pi_ab[/tex] being g_ab and Pi_ab the metric and momentum density could we obtain the Casimir invariant of this group?...

the last question given the lagrangian of special relativity [tex]{g^1/2}Rdx^4[/tex] how do you calculate the momentum [tex]\pi_ab[/tex] ?...
 
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  • #2
Any tensor that is identically zero is invariant in GR.
 
  • #3
What do you mean by this operator [tex] \frac{d}{dt} [/tex] in GR...?Who's "t"...?

For the second question,how would you build the Lie group...?How do you define the Lie product...?

As for the last,things are not that easy.Hamiltonian formalism for GR needs other variables,for example working with [itex] g_{\mu\nu} [/itex] and [itex] \pi_{\mu\nu} [/itex] is not easy and usually,there are different notations of the elements of the metric.

Anyway,the definition is still the same:

[tex] \pi_{\mu\nu}=:\frac{\partial \mathcal{L}}{\partial^{0}g^{\mu\nu}} [/tex]

Daniel.
 

FAQ: Invariants in general relativity

What are invariants in general relativity?

Invariants in general relativity are quantities that do not change under coordinate transformations. They are used to describe physical properties of a system that are independent of the coordinate system used to measure them.

How are invariants used in general relativity?

Invariants are used to describe the curvature of spacetime in general relativity. They are also used in the calculation of physical quantities, such as energy and momentum, that are conserved in a gravitational system.

What is the significance of invariants in general relativity?

Invariants are significant because they allow us to make meaningful and consistent measurements and calculations in general relativity, regardless of the choice of coordinates. They also help us understand the fundamental principles of spacetime and gravity.

Can invariants change in certain situations?

Yes, invariants can change in certain situations. For example, in the presence of a strong gravitational field, the invariants that describe the curvature of spacetime can change. However, there are certain invariants, such as the speed of light, that are always constant.

What are some examples of invariants in general relativity?

Some examples of invariants in general relativity include the speed of light, the Ricci scalar, and the Kretschmann scalar. These invariants are used to describe the properties of spacetime and the effects of gravity on the curvature of spacetime.

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