Oriented-axis invariant Cartesian tensor

ID: oriented-axis-invariant-cartesian-tensor

A Cartesian second-rank tensor invariant under all rotations about an oriented unit axis has the displayed form. A half-turn about the axis eliminates the mixed axial-transverse entries, and a quarter-turn makes the transverse block a scalar matrix plus an antisymmetric planar rotation generator. Conversely both transverse terms commute with every rotation about the axis. The antisymmetric term is allowed unless symmetry or an additional axis-reversing rotation is imposed. This differs from an axially invariant second-rank tensor for an unoriented axis.

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