Working with differential forms

In summary, the conversation discusses proving the formula d\omega_{ij}+\sum_{k=1}^{n} \omega_{ik}\wedge\omega_{kj} =0, with the use of the Maurer-Cartan forms \omega_{ij}(X)(Y)=(X^{-1}Y)_{ij} and the equivalent formula dX_{ij}=\sum_{k=1}^{n} X_{ik}\omega_{kj}. The suggestion given is to apply the differential operator to both sides of the equivalent formula, resulting in d\omega_{rj}, and then multiply by (X^{-1})_{ri} and sum over i to obtain the desired formula. The conversation ends with the
  • #1
Demon117
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Homework Statement



Show that
[tex]d\omega_{ij}+\sum_{k=1}^{n} \omega_{ik}\wedge\omega_{kj} =0[/tex]


Homework Equations



Let G be the group of invertible nxn matrices. This is an open set in the vector space
[tex]M=Mat(n\times n, R)[/tex]
and our formalism of differential forms applies there with the coordinate functions now being the entries
[tex]X_{ij}[/tex] of a matrix [tex]X[/tex].
For every linear function
[tex]\lambda : M\rightarrow R[/tex],
there is a unique 1-form
[tex]\omega_{\lambda}\in G[/tex]
that has the value[tex]\lambda[/tex] at I and is invariant under all left multiplications
[tex]L_{\lambda}:Y\rightarrow YX for X\in G[/tex]; that is, [tex]L_{X}^{*}(\omega_{\lambda})=\omega_{\lambda}[/tex]. It is given by
[tex]\omega_{\lambda}(X):Y|\rightarrow\lambda(D(L_{X^{-1}})_{X}(Y))=\lambda(X^{-1}Y), X\in G, Y\in M[/tex].
The basic examples are the Maurer-Cartan forms
[tex]\omega_{ij}(X)(Y)=(X^{-1}Y)_{ij}[/tex]
or
[tex]\omega_{ij}(X)=\sum_{k=1}^{n} (X^{-1}_{ik}dX_{kj})[/tex].



The Attempt at a Solution


HA HA, I don't know. It has been suggested that I use an equivalent formula, namely
[tex]dX_{ij}=\sum_{k=1}^{n} X_{ik}\omega_{kj}[/tex].
Then apply [tex]d[/tex]. Now this will hold for all i and j. To obtain a differential [tex]d\omega_{rj}[/tex], multiply that equation by [tex](X^{-1})_{ri}[/tex] and sum over i.

This suggestion is great, but I am not even sure I really understand it. Any other suggestions on how to prove this, or maybe some tips about this suggestion?
 
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  • #2
Ok, clearly no one else understands this. . . . but it is actually quite straightforward now that I have done it myself.
 

FAQ: Working with differential forms

What are differential forms?

Differential forms are mathematical objects used in multivariable calculus and differential geometry to represent geometric concepts such as direction, area, and volume. They are expressions that involve both functions and their derivatives, and can be used to describe and manipulate geometric properties of surfaces and higher-dimensional spaces.

How are differential forms different from ordinary functions?

Differential forms are different from ordinary functions in that they incorporate information about the orientation and dimension of the space they are defined on. They also have additional algebraic properties that allow for more versatile manipulation and calculation. In contrast, ordinary functions do not have this orientation or dimension information and are simply values assigned to points in a space.

What is the significance of working with differential forms?

Working with differential forms allows for a more elegant and concise representation of geometric concepts and calculations. They also provide a deep understanding of the underlying geometry and can be used to solve complex problems in physics, engineering, and other fields that involve multi-dimensional spaces.

How are differential forms used in physics?

In physics, differential forms are used to represent physical quantities such as velocity, acceleration, and force, which are all inherently geometric in nature. They are also used in the study of electromagnetism, general relativity, and other areas of theoretical physics where understanding the underlying geometry is crucial.

Can differential forms be visualized?

While differential forms cannot be directly visualized, their geometric properties can be understood through visualizations of related concepts such as vector fields, tangent spaces, and differential operators. Visualization aids such as computer-generated images and animations can also be used to help understand and manipulate differential forms in higher dimensions.

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