What are basis vectors, one forms, and basis one forms?

In summary, the conversation is about the understanding of basis vectors, one forms, and basis one forms in relation to covariance and contravariance. The person asking for help has a basic understanding of linear algebra and calculus but is struggling with the concept of these geometries. They are recommended to read a free textbook on differential forms aimed at students with some mathematical knowledge.
  • #1
Varnick
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I'm not sure this is the correct forum section for this question, if not, please move me. Essentially, I'm looking for help understanding what basis vectors, one forms, and basis one forms are. I'm fairly sure I get basis vectors, I would describe them as a description of a co-ordinate system, and also function similar to unit vectors. One of the main areas related to this that confuses me is covariance and contravariance, could anyone shed some light on this? Many thanks,

V
 
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  • #2
What's your mathematical experience? Do you know elementary linear algebra and calculus?
 
  • #3
I'm going into my A2 year (UK education system, just before college for you USers). I've completed work in linear algebra and calculus, and have looked at very basic vector calculus, partial differentiation, matrices, and some tensor analysis (now starting to look at tensor calculus, when my mind isn't exploding). I'm starting to understand what the geometries I listed are mathematically, but not qualitatively. Any help appreciated,

V
 
  • #4
OK, you should be able to handle the following reference with no problem then.

A Geometric Approach to Differential Forms.

It's a free textbook on differential forms aimed at students who have studied multivariable calculus and a little linear algebra.
 
  • #5
Thanks, I'll get reading that next week, got to finish a paper for Tuesday.

V
 

FAQ: What are basis vectors, one forms, and basis one forms?

What is a vector?

A vector is a mathematical quantity that has both magnitude and direction. It is represented by an arrow pointing in the direction of the vector, with the length of the arrow representing the magnitude of the vector.

What is a tensor?

A tensor is a mathematical object that represents a linear relationship between sets of vectors and/or other tensors. It is a generalization of vectors and matrices to higher dimensions and can be used to describe physical quantities such as stress, strain, and fluid flow.

What is the difference between a vector and a tensor?

While both vectors and tensors represent mathematical quantities with magnitude and direction, the key difference is that tensors can operate on multiple vectors and produce a scalar, while vectors can only operate on a single vector and produce another vector. Tensors are also more general and can represent higher dimensional quantities.

How are vectors and tensors used in science and engineering?

Vectors and tensors are used in many areas of science and engineering, including physics, mathematics, mechanics, and engineering. They are used to describe physical quantities such as force, velocity, and stress, as well as to model and solve complex systems and equations.

What are some common operations performed on vectors and tensors?

Some common operations performed on vectors and tensors include addition, subtraction, multiplication (by a scalar), dot product, cross product, and tensor contraction. These operations allow for manipulation and analysis of vectors and tensors in a variety of applications.

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