Components of metric perturbation in TT gauge

In summary, the conversation revolves around a question in which the individual is trying to show a transformation from [tex] \bar{h^{TT}_{\mu \nu}} [\tex] to [tex] h^{TT}_{\mu \nu} [\tex]. The individual shares their attempt at a solution using equations related to Minkowski metric, but is unsure about a certain step. They also inquire about the validity of using the Minkowski metric in this context.
  • #1
fasterthanjoao
731
1

Homework Statement



I'm just working through a textbook and there's a line in which I'm clearly missing something. What I want to do is show that from:
[tex] \bar{h^{TT}_{\mu \nu}} = A^{TT}_{\mu \nu} cos(\omega (t-z)) [\tex]
to
[tex] h^{TT}_{\mu \nu} = B^{TT}_{\mu \nu} cos(\omega (t-z)) [\tex]


Homework Equations



[tex]\bar{h}_{\mu \nu} = h_{\mu \nu} - \frac{1}{2} \eta_{\mu \nu} h[\tex]
[tex]h = h^{\alpha}_{\alpha} = \eta^{\alpha \beta} h_{\alpha \beta}[\tex]


The Attempt at a Solution



There's just one line where I have an issue, i think.

I've used the above equations to say:

[tex] \bar{h} = \eta^{\mu \nu}\bar{h}_{\mu \nu}[\tex]
then substituted the equation for [tex]\bar{h}_{\mu \nu}[\tex] to get:

[tex] \bar{h} = h - \frac{1}{2} \eta^{\mu \nu} \eta_{\mu \nu} h[\tex]

which is fine, but for it to work this last line must equal [tex]-h[\tex], I think and I'm not sure i see where that comes from.

thanks.

ftj
 
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  • #2
Your eta is the Minkowski metric, right?

eta_{alpha beta} eta^{mu nu} = delta_{alpha}^{mu} delta_{beta}^{nu}

Take it away.
 

Related to Components of metric perturbation in TT gauge

1. What is the TT gauge?

The TT gauge, or transverse traceless gauge, is a specific choice of gauge used in general relativity to describe the metric perturbations of a spacetime. In this gauge, the spatial components of the metric tensor are transverse and traceless, meaning they are perpendicular to the direction of propagation and have no overall scaling factor.

2. What are the components of metric perturbation in TT gauge?

The components of metric perturbation in TT gauge are the transverse and traceless components of the spatial metric tensor. These are the physical degrees of freedom that describe gravitational waves in general relativity.

3. How do metric perturbations in TT gauge differ from those in other gauges?

The TT gauge is a specific choice of gauge that simplifies the equations used to describe metric perturbations in general relativity. In other gauges, the metric perturbations may have additional non-physical components that must be accounted for in the equations.

4. What is the significance of the components of metric perturbation in TT gauge?

The components of metric perturbation in TT gauge are important because they describe the physical effects of gravitational waves. By studying these components, scientists can make predictions about the behavior of spacetime and test the predictions of general relativity.

5. How are the components of metric perturbation in TT gauge calculated?

The components of metric perturbation in TT gauge can be calculated using the linearized Einstein field equations, which describe the behavior of spacetime in the presence of small perturbations. These calculations involve solving differential equations and can be quite complex, but they ultimately provide a detailed description of the gravitational waves in a given spacetime.

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