Lie algebras are a key part of non-associative algebra, providing a framework for studying continuous symmetries in math and physics. They capture the infinitesimal properties of Lie groups, enabling powerful analysis techniques across various fields.
Representations of Lie algebras extend this study by showing how Lie algebras act on vector spaces. This allows Lie algebraic techniques to be applied to a wide range of mathematical and physical problems, bridging abstract algebra and practical applications.
Definition of Lie algebras
Lie algebras form a crucial part of non-associative algebra, providing a framework for studying continuous symmetries in mathematical and physical systems
These algebraic structures capture the infinitesimal properties of Lie groups, allowing for powerful analysis techniques in various fields of mathematics and physics
Axioms of Lie algebras
Top images from around the web for Axioms of Lie algebras
Visual Lie Theory: Picturing structure constants View original
Is this image relevant?
Lie Algebras [The Physics Travel Guide] View original
Is this image relevant?
Visual Lie Theory: Picturing structure constants View original
Is this image relevant?
Visual Lie Theory: Picturing structure constants View original
Is this image relevant?
Lie Algebras [The Physics Travel Guide] View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Axioms of Lie algebras
Visual Lie Theory: Picturing structure constants View original
Is this image relevant?
Lie Algebras [The Physics Travel Guide] View original
Is this image relevant?
Visual Lie Theory: Picturing structure constants View original
Is this image relevant?
Visual Lie Theory: Picturing structure constants View original
Is this image relevant?
Lie Algebras [The Physics Travel Guide] View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Vector space L over a field F equipped with a binary operation [,]:L×L→L called the Lie bracket
Bilinearity requires [ax+by,z]=a[x,z]+b[y,z] and [z,ax+by]=a[z,x]+b[z,y] for all x,y,z∈L and a,b∈F
Alternating property dictates [x,x]=0 for all x∈L
Jacobi identity states [x,[y,z]]+[y,[z,x]]+[z,[x,y]]=0 for all x,y,z∈L
Anticommutativity follows from bilinearity and alternating property, resulting in [x,y]=−[y,x]
Examples of Lie algebras
Three-dimensional real Lie algebra so(3) represents infinitesimal rotations in 3D space
Basis elements correspond to rotations around x, y, and z axes
Lie bracket given by [ei,ej]=ϵijkek, where ϵijk is the Levi-Civita symbol
General linear Lie algebra gl(n,F) consists of all n×n matrices over field F
Lie bracket defined as the commutator [A,B]=AB−BA
Special linear Lie algebra sl(n,F) is a subalgebra of traceless matrices
Relationship to Lie groups
Lie algebras serve as tangent spaces to Lie groups at the identity element
Exponential map connects Lie algebra elements to Lie group elements
Baker-Campbell-Hausdorff formula relates group multiplication to Lie bracket operations
Adjoint representation of a Lie group on its Lie algebra encodes the group's structure
Representations of Lie algebras
Representations of Lie algebras extend the study of non-associative algebra by providing a way to understand how Lie algebras act on vector spaces
These representations allow for the application of Lie algebraic techniques to a wide range of mathematical and physical problems, bridging abstract algebra and practical applications
Definition of representation
Linear map ρ:L→End(V) from a Lie algebra L to the endomorphisms of a vector space V
Preserves the Lie bracket structure ρ([x,y])=ρ(x)ρ(y)−ρ(y)ρ(x) for all x,y∈L
Representation space V becomes an L-module under the action x⋅v=ρ(x)(v) for x∈L and v∈V
Dimension of the representation refers to the dimension of the vector space V
Homomorphisms and isomorphisms
Lie algebra homomorphism ϕ:L1→L2 preserves the Lie bracket ϕ([x,y])=[ϕ(x),ϕ(y)]
Isomorphism between Lie algebras establishes a bijective homomorphism
Representation homomorphism ψ:V1→V2 satisfies ψ(ρ1(x)v)=ρ2(x)ψ(v) for all x∈L and v∈V1
Equivalent representations connected by an invertible intertwining operator
Adjoint representation
Canonical representation of a Lie algebra on itself
Defined by adx(y)=[x,y] for all x,y∈L
Jacobi identity ensures ad[x,y]=[adx,ady]
Kernel of the adjoint representation forms the center of the Lie algebra
Killing form K(x,y)=Tr(adx∘ady) provides an invariant bilinear form
Types of representations
Understanding different types of representations enhances the study of non-associative algebra by revealing the structure and properties of Lie algebras through their actions on vector spaces
This classification allows for a systematic approach to analyzing and applying Lie algebraic concepts in various mathematical and physical contexts
Irreducible representations
Cannot be decomposed into smaller subrepresentations
Every non-zero vector generates the entire representation space
states that any intertwining operator is a scalar multiple of the identity
Finite-dimensional irreducible representations of semisimple Lie algebras classified by highest weights
Casimir operators act as scalar multiples of the identity on irreducible representations
Reducible representations
Can be decomposed into a direct sum of subrepresentations
Completely reducible representations decompose into a direct sum of irreducible representations
states that all finite-dimensional representations of semisimple Lie algebras are completely reducible
Decomposition process involves finding invariant subspaces and quotient representations
Multiplicity of an irreducible component refers to the number of times it appears in the decomposition
Faithful representations
Injective representations where distinct Lie algebra elements act differently on the representation space
Provide isomorphisms between the Lie algebra and a subalgebra of gl(V)
Adjoint representation is faithful if and only if the Lie algebra has a trivial center
Existence of faithful representations allows for concrete matrix realizations of abstract Lie algebras
Ado's theorem guarantees the existence of finite-dimensional faithful representations for finite-dimensional Lie algebras
Weight theory
Weight theory forms a fundamental part of the of Lie algebras in non-associative algebra
This framework provides powerful tools for analyzing the structure of representations and connecting algebraic properties to geometric concepts
Weight spaces and vectors
Weight space Vλ consists of vectors v∈V such that h⋅v=λ(h)v for all h in the
Weight λ is a linear functional on the Cartan subalgebra
Representation decomposes as a direct sum of weight spaces V=⨁λVλ
Weight diagram visually represents the weights of a representation in the dual space of the Cartan subalgebra
Multiplicity of a weight refers to the dimension of its corresponding weight space
Root systems
Roots are non-zero weights of the adjoint representation
Φ consists of all roots and satisfies specific axioms (closure under reflection, integrality)
Simple roots form a basis for the root system, allowing for classification of roots as positive or negative
Weyl group generated by reflections with respect to simple roots acts on the weight lattice
Dynkin diagrams provide a graphical representation of simple root systems, classifying simple Lie algebras
Cartan subalgebra
Maximal abelian subalgebra h of a Lie algebra L
Consists of semisimple elements that are diagonalizable in the adjoint representation
Dimension of the Cartan subalgebra defines the rank of the Lie algebra
Roots and weights are elements of the dual space h∗
Cartan-Killing form restricted to the Cartan subalgebra provides a non-degenerate bilinear form
Highest weight theory
Highest weight theory plays a crucial role in the classification and construction of representations in non-associative algebra
This approach provides a systematic way to understand and generate representations of Lie algebras, particularly for semisimple Lie algebras
Highest weight modules
Representation containing a highest weight vector vλ annihilated by all positive root vectors
Highest weight λ determines the entire structure of the module
Finite-dimensional irreducible representations of semisimple Lie algebras are highest weight modules
Weight space decomposition of highest weight modules follows a specific pattern determined by the root system
Contravariant form on highest weight modules provides a tool for studying their structure
Verma modules
Universal highest weight modules M(λ) generated by a highest weight vector
Infinite-dimensional for non-integral dominant weights
Unique maximal proper submodule leads to the construction of irreducible highest weight modules
BGG resolution expresses finite-dimensional modules in terms of Verma modules
Category O provides a framework for studying Verma modules and their quotients
Character formulas
Formal sum ch(V)=∑λdim(Vλ)eλ encoding weight space dimensions
Weyl character formula expresses characters of finite-dimensional irreducible representations
Freudenthal's formula allows for recursive computation of weight multiplicities
Kostant's multiplicity formula provides an alternative approach using partition functions
Characters form a ring under tensor product operations, reflecting the decomposition of tensor products
Classification of representations
Classification of representations is a fundamental aspect of non-associative algebra, particularly in the study of Lie algebras
This systematic categorization allows for a deeper understanding of the structure and properties of different types of representations
Finite-dimensional representations
Completely classified for semisimple Lie algebras using highest weight theory
Dimension formula expresses the dimension of irreducible representations in terms of roots and weights
Tensor product decomposition rules determined by the Littlewood-Richardson coefficients
Branching rules describe the decomposition of representations under restriction to subalgebras
Weyl's dimension formula provides a closed-form expression for dimensions of irreducible representations
Infinite-dimensional representations
Include Verma modules, generalized Verma modules, and their quotients
Harish-Chandra modules for semisimple Lie groups with finite-dimensional weight spaces
Principal series representations arising from parabolic induction
Discrete series representations for semisimple Lie groups of Hermitian type
Complementary series representations occurring in specific ranges of parameters
Unitary representations
Preserve an inner product on the representation space
Crucial in quantum mechanics and harmonic analysis on Lie groups
Unitary dual problem seeks to classify all irreducible unitary representations
Bargmann's classification of unitary representations of SL(2,R)
Restriction of unitary representations to compact subgroups yields discrete decompositions
Representation theory applications
Applications of representation theory in non-associative algebra extend far beyond pure mathematics
This powerful framework provides essential tools for understanding and solving problems in various fields of physics and geometry
Particle physics
Classification of elementary particles using representations of the Poincaré group
Standard Model based on representations of SU(3)×SU(2)×U(1) gauge group
Quark model utilizes SU(3) flavor symmetry to organize hadrons
Supersymmetry employs representations of super Lie algebras to relate bosons and fermions
Grand Unified Theories explore larger Lie groups (SU(5), SO(10)) to unify fundamental forces
Quantum mechanics
Angular momentum operators form representations of su(2)
Hydrogen atom energy levels explained using SO(4) symmetry
Harmonic oscillator states organized by representations of the Heisenberg algebra
Clebsch-Gordan coefficients describe coupling of angular momenta
Wigner-Eckart theorem relates matrix elements of tensor operators to Clebsch-Gordan coefficients
Differential geometry
Killing vector fields on manifolds form finite-dimensional Lie algebras
Representation theory of SO(n) classifies tensors on Riemannian manifolds
Hodge theory employs representations of SO(n) to study differential forms
Atiyah-Singer index theorem relates analytical and topological invariants via representation theory
Representation theory of loop groups connects to the theory of affine Lie algebras
Computational methods
Computational methods play an increasingly important role in the study of non-associative algebra, particularly in representation theory of Lie algebras
These tools allow for efficient calculation, exploration, and verification of theoretical results in complex algebraic structures
Lie algebra software packages
GAP (Groups, Algorithms, Programming) provides extensive functionality for Lie algebras and their representations
LiE specializes in computations with simple Lie algebras and their representations
SageMath incorporates various Lie algebraic computations within a broader mathematical framework
Mathematica's GroupMath package offers tools for Lie algebra and group theory calculations
FORM focuses on symbolic manipulation of algebraic expressions in high-energy physics applications
Algorithms for representation theory
LLL algorithm for finding short vectors in lattices applies to weight lattice computations
Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization used in constructing bases for weight spaces
Littlewood-Richardson rule implemented for tensor product decompositions
Demazure character formula allows for recursive computation of characters
Freudenthal's recursion formula calculates weight multiplicities in irreducible representations
Numerical techniques
Numerical diagonalization of matrices for finding weights and weight vectors
Monte Carlo methods for estimating dimensions of high-dimensional representations
Iterative algorithms for solving systems of linear equations in weight space calculations
Numerical integration techniques for computing characters and their inner products
Machine learning approaches for pattern recognition in representation data and prediction of representation properties
Advanced topics
Advanced topics in non-associative algebra extend the study of Lie algebras and their representations to more complex and generalized structures
These areas of research connect representation theory to other branches of mathematics and physics, opening up new avenues for exploration and application
Kac-Moody algebras
Infinite-dimensional generalizations of semisimple Lie algebras
Classified by generalized Cartan matrices and Dynkin diagrams
Affine Kac-Moody algebras correspond to extended Dynkin diagrams
Hyperbolic Kac-Moody algebras have Lorentzian signature Cartan matrices
Representation theory involves highest weight modules and integrable representations
Affine Lie algebras
Central extensions of loop algebras of finite-dimensional simple Lie algebras
Vertex operator representations connect to conformal field theory
Modular forms arise from characters of integrable highest weight representations
Affine Weyl groups describe the symmetries of affine root systems
Quantum groups
Hopf algebra deformations of universal enveloping algebras of Lie algebras
Quantum parameter q interpolates between classical and quantum regimes
R-matrix formalism encodes the quasi-triangular structure
Crystal bases provide combinatorial models for representations at q=0
Connections to knot theory through quantum invariants (Jones polynomial)
Historical development
The historical development of representation theory in non-associative algebra reflects the evolution of mathematical thought and its interactions with physics
This progression has led to a rich and diverse field with ongoing research and applications across multiple disciplines
Classical vs modern approaches
Classical approach focused on matrix representations and character theory
Modern approach emphasizes abstract algebraic structures and categorical methods
Transition from concrete calculations to axiomatic foundations
Increased emphasis on homological methods and functorial properties
Integration of representation theory with other areas of mathematics (algebraic geometry, number theory)
Key contributors and theorems
Sophus Lie introduced Lie groups and Lie algebras in the late 19th century
developed the structure theory of semisimple Lie algebras
established the foundation of compact Lie group representation theory
Harish-Chandra extended representation theory to non-compact semisimple Lie groups
Israel Gelfand and Mark Naimark initiated the study of infinite-dimensional representations
Open problems in representation theory
Langlands program seeks to connect representation theory of algebraic groups to number theory
Invariant theory questions related to geometric complexity theory
Classification of unitary representations for exceptional Lie groups
Representation stability in sequences of groups (FI-modules)
Categorification of quantum groups and their representations
Key Terms to Review (18)
Action of a Lie Algebra: The action of a Lie algebra refers to the way in which elements of the Lie algebra can be represented as linear transformations acting on a vector space. This concept is central in understanding how Lie algebras can describe symmetries and transformations in various mathematical and physical contexts, particularly through their representations. The action allows for the study of how these algebraic structures can influence or change vectors in the associated space, linking abstract algebraic ideas to concrete geometrical and physical phenomena.
Cartan Subalgebra: A Cartan subalgebra is a maximal abelian subalgebra of a Lie algebra, which plays a crucial role in the structure theory and representation theory of Lie algebras. It is composed of semisimple elements and allows for the diagonalization of other elements in the algebra, enabling the classification and understanding of representations and root systems.
Élie Cartan: Élie Cartan was a French mathematician who made significant contributions to the fields of differential geometry and Lie theory, particularly in the study of Lie groups and Lie algebras. His work provided foundational insights into the structure and classification of simple Lie algebras, which are essential in understanding symmetries in mathematics and physics.
Finite-dimensional representation: A finite-dimensional representation is a way to represent algebraic structures, like Lie algebras, using linear transformations on a finite-dimensional vector space. This type of representation allows for the study of the algebraic properties of these structures by translating them into matrix form, which can then be analyzed using tools from linear algebra. Finite-dimensional representations are essential in understanding the behavior of Lie algebras and their applications in various mathematical and physical contexts.
Hermann Weyl: Hermann Weyl was a prominent mathematician and theoretical physicist known for his significant contributions to various fields, including non-associative algebra, group theory, and differential geometry. His work laid the foundation for understanding the representation theory of Lie algebras and advanced the development of mathematical structures like the octonions, linking algebra with physics and geometry.
Highest weight representation: A highest weight representation is a type of representation of a Lie algebra where each weight vector is associated with a specific weight, and there exists a unique highest weight vector that serves as a highest element in the weight space. This concept plays a crucial role in understanding the structure of representations, particularly when analyzing the decompositions and irreducibility of representations of semisimple Lie algebras.
Infinite-dimensional representation: An infinite-dimensional representation is a way to express a mathematical structure, such as a Lie algebra, through linear transformations acting on an infinite-dimensional vector space. This concept allows for the exploration of more complex symmetries and transformations that cannot be captured by finite-dimensional spaces. Infinite-dimensional representations are crucial in areas such as quantum mechanics and theoretical physics, where systems often require a more extensive framework to describe their behavior accurately.
Irreducible Representation: An irreducible representation is a representation of an algebraic structure that cannot be decomposed into smaller representations. This means that there are no non-trivial invariant subspaces under the action of the representation, making it a fundamental concept in the study of symmetries and transformations in various algebraic contexts.
Linear Transformation: A linear transformation is a mapping between two vector spaces that preserves the operations of vector addition and scalar multiplication. This means that if you take any two vectors and combine them through addition or multiply them by a scalar, the transformation will give you a result that behaves in a predictable and consistent way with respect to those operations. Understanding linear transformations is crucial as they are the foundation of many algebraic structures, connecting various areas like representation theory and algebraic structures.
Module over a Lie algebra: A module over a Lie algebra is a mathematical structure that generalizes the notion of vector spaces when studying Lie algebras. It allows for the action of a Lie algebra on a module, enabling the exploration of representations and symmetries of the algebra. This connection is essential in understanding how Lie algebras interact with other algebraic structures, particularly in the context of their representations and their fundamental properties.
Reducible Representation: A reducible representation is a type of representation of a mathematical object, such as a Lie algebra, that can be expressed as a direct sum of two or more nontrivial representations. This concept is crucial in understanding how complex structures can be simplified into simpler components, making it easier to study their properties and behaviors. Recognizing whether a representation is reducible helps in classifying representations and understanding the underlying symmetries of the algebra involved.
Representation Theory: Representation theory studies how algebraic structures, like groups or algebras, can be represented through linear transformations of vector spaces. This theory provides a bridge between abstract algebra and linear algebra, revealing how these structures can act on spaces and enabling the application of linear methods to problems in abstract algebra.
Root System: A root system is a configuration of vectors in a Euclidean space that reflects the symmetries and structure of a Lie algebra. These vectors, known as roots, help to organize the representation theory of Lie algebras and can be used to analyze weight spaces and their relationships. Root systems play a crucial role in classifying simple Lie algebras and understanding their representations, connecting geometric and algebraic perspectives.
Schur's Lemma: Schur's Lemma is a fundamental result in representation theory that provides insights into the relationship between homomorphisms of representations of algebras and the structure of these representations. It states that if a representation is irreducible, any linear map that commutes with the action of the algebra must be a scalar multiple of the identity map. This concept helps us understand how representations behave, especially in relation to symmetry and structure in both Lie algebras and alternative algebras.
Semisimple Lie Algebra: A semisimple Lie algebra is a type of Lie algebra that can be expressed as a direct sum of simple Lie algebras, which are those that do not have non-trivial ideals. This structure implies that semisimple Lie algebras are devoid of abelian ideals and can be completely characterized in terms of their representations, classification, and relationships with other algebraic structures.
Solvable Lie algebra: A solvable Lie algebra is a type of Lie algebra where the derived series eventually becomes zero. This means that if you start with the Lie algebra and repeatedly take its commutator subalgebras, you will reach the trivial algebra after a finite number of steps. Solvable Lie algebras play an important role in understanding representations, structure theory, and computations within the realm of Lie algebras.
Verma module: A Verma module is a type of representation of a semisimple Lie algebra that is constructed from a highest weight vector. It serves as a fundamental building block in the representation theory of Lie algebras, particularly in understanding the structure and classification of irreducible representations. Verma modules help us analyze how these representations behave under various operations, making them essential for studying the representations of Lie algebras in detail.
Weyl's Theorem: Weyl's Theorem states that the character of a finite-dimensional representation of a semisimple Lie algebra is completely determined by its highest weight. This means that if two representations have the same highest weight, they will have the same character, which is a powerful tool in understanding the structure of representations in both mathematics and theoretical physics. The theorem emphasizes the importance of weights in analyzing how Lie algebras act on vector spaces, revealing deeper relationships within their representations and applications in various fields such as particle physics.