A covariant tensor, denoted with a lowered index (e.g., ) is a tensor having specific transformation properties. In general, these transformation properties differ from those of a contravariant tensor.
To examine the transformation properties of a covariant tensor, first consider the gradient
(1)
for which
(2)
where . Now let
(3)
then any set of quantities which transform according to
(4)
or, defining
(5)
according to
(6)
is a covariant tensor.
Contravariant tensors are a type of tensor with differing transformation properties, denoted . To turn a contravariant tensor into a covariant tensor (index lowering), use the metric tensor to write
(7)
Covariant and contravariant indices can be used simultaneously in a mixed tensor.
In Euclidean spaces, and more generally in flat Riemannian manifolds, a coordinate system can be found where the metric tensor is constant, equal to Kronecker delta
(8)
Therefore, raising and lowering indices is trivial, hence covariant and contravariant tensors have the same coordinates, and can be identified. Such tensors are known as Cartesian tensors.
A similar result holds for flat pseudo-Riemannian manifolds, such as Minkowski space, for which covariant and contravariant tensors can be identified. However, raising and lowering indices changes the sign of the temporal components of tensors, because of the negative eigenvalue in the Minkowski metric.
See alsoCartesian Tensor,
Contravariant Tensor,
Four-Vector,
Index Lowering,
Lorentz Tensor,
Metric Tensor,
Mixed Tensor,
TensorPortions of this entry contributed by Manuel F. González Lázaro
Explore with Wolfram|Alpha ReferencesArfken, G. "Noncartesian Tensors, Covariant Differentiation." §3.8 in Mathematical Methods for Physicists, 3rd ed. Orlando, FL: Academic Press, pp. 158-164, 1985.Lichnerowicz, A. Elements of Tensor Calculus. New York: Wiley, 1962.Morse, P. M. and Feshbach, H. Methods of Theoretical Physics, Part I. New York: McGraw-Hill, pp. 44-46, 1953.Weinberg, S. Gravitation and Cosmology: Principles and Applications of the General Theory of Relativity. New York: Wiley, 1972. Referenced on Wolfram|AlphaCovariant Tensor Cite this as:Lázaro, Manuel F. González and Weisstein, Eric W. "Covariant Tensor." From MathWorld--A Wolfram Resource. https://mathworld.wolfram.com/CovariantTensor.html
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