Can the lorentz group be covered by single-parameter subgroups?

In summary, the Lorentz group is a mathematical group that represents the symmetries of special relativity. It can be covered by single-parameter subgroups, such as rotations, boosts, and time translations, which are continuous transformations that depend on a single parameter. Studying this coverage is important for understanding the symmetries of special relativity and their applications in physics. However, there are limitations to this coverage, as some transformations may require multiple parameters to be fully described and there are subgroups that cannot be covered by single-parameter subgroups.
  • #1
wdlang
307
0
we all know the lorentz group is of four disconnected components

about the component connected to the unit element,

is it coverable with single-parameter subgroups?

put it in another way

are all the elements in this component of the form exp(A)?

i am studying relativistic quantum mechanics, and i find that most textbooks take this to be guaranteed.
 
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  • #2
No; the Lorentz algebra is six-dimensional. Yes, you can write any element in the connected-to-the-identity part of the Lorentz group in the form e^{i theta^a T^A}.
 

Related to Can the lorentz group be covered by single-parameter subgroups?

1. What is the Lorentz group?

The Lorentz group is a mathematical group that represents the symmetries of special relativity. It consists of all possible transformations that preserve the space-time interval between events.

2. Can the Lorentz group be covered by single-parameter subgroups?

Yes, the Lorentz group can be covered by single-parameter subgroups. This means that any element of the Lorentz group can be expressed as a combination of one-parameter subgroups, which are continuous transformations that depend on a single parameter.

3. What are some examples of single-parameter subgroups of the Lorentz group?

Some examples of single-parameter subgroups of the Lorentz group include rotations, boosts, and time translations. These transformations can be described by a single parameter, such as an angle or a velocity.

4. Why is it important to study the coverage of the Lorentz group by single-parameter subgroups?

Understanding the coverage of the Lorentz group by single-parameter subgroups is important for studying the symmetries of special relativity and their applications in physics. It also helps to simplify the calculations and analysis of Lorentz group transformations.

5. Are there any limitations to the coverage of the Lorentz group by single-parameter subgroups?

Yes, there are limitations to the coverage of the Lorentz group by single-parameter subgroups. For example, some transformations may require multiple parameters to be fully described. Additionally, there are also subgroups of the Lorentz group that cannot be covered by single-parameter subgroups.

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