PHYSICS · Multi-part · Fermi University Physics · Mathematical Methods for Physics · Tensors and differential geometry · Tensors and differential geometry
Invariance, Ch Curvature
Problem
A surface has the metric ds2=dr2+f(r)2dϕ2 with f>0, where r is arc length along the curves of constant ϕ and ϕ is an angle. Surfaces of revolution have metrics of this form.
((a)) Find the non-zero Christoffel symbols, and show that Rrϕrϕ=−ff′′ and hence that K=−f′′/f, where a prime means d/dr.
((b)) Evaluate K for f=asin(r/a), for f=rsinα and for f=bsinh(r/b), and name the surface of this chapter that each describes.
((c)) A map-maker wants a flat map of a small region of each surface that keeps every distance. Using (b), say for which of the three this is possible, and why.