Einstein field equations

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between the Einstein Field Equations and various conservation laws such as conservation of mass, energy, linear momentum, and angular momentum. It also mentions the principle of least action and how it can be used to derive these conservation laws. Additionally, it touches on the potential of curvature of space-time under certain conditions and the use of Killing's Equations to find symmetries and conserved quantities in the field equations. The main focus is on the conservation of the complex energy-momentum tensor in relation to the Einstein tensor.
  • #1
Alain De Vos
36
1
Can one deduce from the einstein field equations:
-Conservation of mass
-Conservation of energy
-Conservation of mass-energy
-Conservation of linear momentum
-Conservation of angular momentum
-Principle of least action
?

And does curvature of space-time has a "potential" on certain conditions ?
 
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  • #2
You can obtain the Einstein's Field Equation from the principle of least action using the Hilbert Action...
 
  • #3
Matterwave said:
You can obtain the Einstein's Field Equation from the principle of least action using the Hilbert Action...

Also, principle of least action derives many conservation laws using virtue of symmetries in lagrangian mechanics, if you derive field equation from lagrangians, you atomatically assume that conservation laws are valid.
 
  • #4
Otherwise, once you have solved for the metric from the EFEs you can use Killing's Equations to find symmetries/conserved quantities by solving for the respective killing vector fields.
 
  • #5
The Einstein tensor

[tex]G^{\mu\nu}=R^{\mu\nu}-(1/2)Rg^{\mu\nu}
[/tex]

obeys [itex]{G^{\mu\nu}}_{ ;\nu}=\kappa\ {T^{\mu\nu}}_{ ;\nu}=0[/itex] identically as a consequence of satisfying an action prinple. What is conserved is the complex T, the energy-momentum tensor.
 
Last edited:

Related to Einstein field equations

1. What are the Einstein field equations?

The Einstein field equations, also known as Einstein's equations, are a set of 10 equations in Einstein's theory of general relativity that describe the relationship between the curvature of space-time and the distribution of matter and energy.

2. Who came up with the Einstein field equations?

The Einstein field equations were developed by Albert Einstein in 1915 as part of his theory of general relativity.

3. What is the significance of the Einstein field equations?

The Einstein field equations are significant because they provide a mathematical framework for understanding the relationship between space-time and matter/energy. They have also been extensively tested and verified, making them a cornerstone of modern physics.

4. Can the Einstein field equations be used to understand the entire universe?

While the Einstein field equations are a crucial tool in understanding the universe, they do not provide a complete picture. Other theories, such as quantum mechanics, are also necessary to fully understand the universe.

5. Are the Einstein field equations still relevant today?

Yes, the Einstein field equations are still highly relevant today and are used in a wide range of applications, from understanding the behavior of black holes to the development of gravitational wave detectors. They are also constantly being tested and refined as our understanding of the universe evolves.

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