Vielbeins: Is $$e^1.e^1$$ a Basis Like $$i.i=1$$?

Thread starter PhyAmateur
Start date Jan 27, 2015
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General relativity

In summary, vielbeins are orthonormal vectors that form a basis for the local tangent space in curved spacetime. They are related to the metric tensor through a specific equation and are used to convert between coordinate and tetrad components. The dot product of two vielbeins is an important quantity in the study of vielbeins and they are used in the formulation of the Einstein field equations in general relativity.

Jan 27, 2015

PhyAmateur

If $$e^1$$ is a form like the ones in tetrad formalism (vielbeins). If we have $$e^1 . e^1$$ can we treat those as basis like $$i.i=1$$?

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Jan 29, 2015

pellman

I think the reason you haven't gotten any answers is that the question is unclear.

FAQ: Vielbeins: Is $$e^1.e^1$$ a Basis Like $$i.i=1$$?

What are vielbeins?

Vielbeins, also known as tetrads or vierbeins, are a set of orthonormal vectors that form a basis for the local tangent space at a point in a curved spacetime. They are commonly used in the field of general relativity to describe the geometry of spacetime.

How are vielbeins related to the metric tensor?

Vielbeins are related to the metric tensor through the relationship g = e^a.e^b, where g is the metric tensor and e^a and e^b are the vielbeins. This relationship allows for the conversion between coordinate and tetrad components of vectors and tensors.

What is the significance of $$e^1.e^1$$ in the context of vielbeins?

The expression $$e^1.e^1$$ represents the dot product of two vielbeins at a point in spacetime. This dot product is equal to 1 if the two vielbeins are parallel, and 0 if they are orthogonal. It is an important quantity in the study of vielbeins and can be used to calculate various geometric quantities.

Is $$e^1.e^1$$ a basis like $$i.i=1$$?

No, $$e^1.e^1$$ is not a basis in the traditional sense. It is a scalar quantity that represents the dot product of two vectors. However, the set of vielbeins forms a basis for the local tangent space, similar to how the basis vectors $$i$$, $$j$$, and $$k$$ form a basis for three-dimensional Euclidean space.

How are vielbeins used in general relativity?

Vielbeins are used in general relativity to describe the geometry of spacetime. They allow for the conversion between coordinate and tetrad components of vectors and tensors, making it easier to calculate various physical quantities. They are also used in the formulation of the Einstein field equations, which describe the relationship between the curvature of spacetime and the distribution of matter and energy in the universe.