What does it mean for gϵ:(x,u)↦(x~,u~) to describe a 1-parameter group of transformations? Explain how to compute the vector field
V=ξ(x,u)∂x∂+η(x,u)∂u∂
that generates such a 1-parameter group of transformations.
Suppose now u=u(x). Define the nth prolongation, pr(n)gϵ, of gϵ and the vector field which generates it. If V is defined by (∗) show that
pr(n)V=V+k=1∑nηk∂u(k)∂
where u(k)=dku/dxk and ηk are functions to be determined.
The curvature of the curve u=u(x) in the (x,u)-plane is given by
κ=(1+ux2)3/2uxx
Rotations in the (x,u)-plane are generated by the vector field
W=x∂u∂−u∂x∂
Show that the curvature κ at a point along a plane curve is invariant under such rotations. Find two further transformations that leave κ invariant.