An Introduction To The Geometrical Analysis Of Vector Fields

This book provides the reader with a gentle path through the multifaceted theory of vector fields, starting from the definitions and the basic properties of vector fields and flows, and ending with some of their countless applications, in the framework of what is nowadays called Geometrical Analysis. Once the background material is established, the applications mainly deal with the following meaningful settings:

This book provides the reader with a gentle path through the multifaceted theory of vector fields, starting from the definitions and the basic properties of vector fields and flows, and ending with some of their countless applications, in the framework of what is nowadays called Geometrical Analysis. Once the background material is established, the applications mainly deal with the following meaningful settings: ODE theory; Maximum Principles (weak, strong and propagation principles); Lie groups (with an emphasis on the construction of Lie groups). This book also provides an introduction to the basic theory of Geometrical Analysis, with a new foundational presentation based on Ordinary Differential Equation techniques, in a unitary and self-contained way.

This book focuses on the study of the volume of vector fields on Riemannian manifolds. Providing a thorough overview of research on vector fields defining minimal submanifolds, and on the existence and characterization of volume minimizers, it includes proofs of the most significant results obtained since the subject’s introduction in 1986. Aiming to inspire further research, it also highlights a selection of intriguing open problems, and exhibits some previously unpublished results. The presentation is direct and deviates substantially from the usual approaches found in the literature, requiring a significant revision of definitions, statements, and proofs. A wide range of topics is covered, including: a discussion on the conditions for a vector field on a Riemannian manifold to determine a minimal submanifold within its tangent bundle with the Sasaki metric; numerous examples of minimal vector fields (including those of constant length on punctured spheres); a thorough analysis of Hopf vector fields on odd-dimensional spheres and their quotients; and a description of volume-minimizing vector fields of constant length on spherical space forms of dimension three. Each chapter concludes with an up-to-date survey which offers supplementary information and provides valuable insights into the material, enhancing the reader's understanding of the subject. Requiring a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts of Riemannian geometry, the book will be useful for researchers and PhD students with an interest in geometric analysis.

Presenting a classical approach to the foundations and development of the geometry of vector fields, this volume space, three orthogonal systems, and applications in mechanics. Other topics, including vector fields, Pfaff forms and systems in n-dimensional space, foliations and Godbillon-Vey invariant, are also considered. There is much interest in the study of geometrical objects in n-dimensional Euclidean space, and this volume provides a useful and comprehensive presentation.

This volume, first published in 2000, presents a classical approach to the foundations and development of the geometry of vector fields, describing vector fields in three-dimensional Euclidean space, triply-orthogonal systems and applications in mechanics. Topics covered include Pfaffian forms, systems in n-dimensional space, and foliations and their Godbillion-Vey invariant. There is much interest in the study of geometrical objects in n-dimensional Euclidean space and this volume provides a useful and comprehensive presentation.

An excellent reference for anyone needing to examine properties of harmonic vector fields to help them solve research problems. The book provides the main results of harmonic vector ?elds with an emphasis on Riemannian manifolds using past and existing problems to assist you in analyzing and furnishing your own conclusion for further research. It emphasizes a combination of theoretical development with practical applications for a solid treatment of the subject useful to those new to research using differential geometric methods in extensive detail. A useful tool for any scientist conducting research in the field of harmonic analysis Provides applications and modern techniques to problem solving A clear and concise exposition of differential geometry of harmonic vector fields on Reimannian manifolds Physical Applications of Geometric Methods

This book introduces advanced undergraduates to Riemannian geometry and mathematical general relativity. The overall strategy of the book is to explain the concept of curvature via the Jacobi equation which, through discussion of tidal forces, further helps motivate the Einstein field equations. After addressing concepts in geometry such as metrics, covariant differentiation, tensor calculus and curvature, the book explains the mathematical framework for both special and general relativity. Relativistic concepts discussed include (initial value formulation of) the Einstein equations, stress-energy tensor, Schwarzschild space-time, ADM mass and geodesic incompleteness. The concluding chapters of the book introduce the reader to geometric analysis: original results of the author and her undergraduate student collaborators illustrate how methods of analysis and differential equations are used in addressing questions from geometry and relativity. The book is mostly self-contained and the reader is only expected to have a solid foundation in multivariable and vector calculus and linear algebra. The material in this book was first developed for the 2013 summer program in geometric analysis at the Park City Math Institute, and was recently modified and expanded to reflect the author's experience of teaching mathematical general relativity to advanced undergraduates at Lewis & Clark College.

Examines general Cartesian coordinates, the cross product, Einstein's special theory of relativity, bases in general coordinate systems, maxima and minima of functions of two variables, line integrals, integral theorems, and more. 1963 edition.