The Bochner Formula via Volume Variations

Abstract

In this short paper, we re-derive the Bochner formula for the Laplacian by considering local variations of volume. The derivation is rooted in the fact that the Laplacian of a function measures the volume variation along the flow of the gradient vector of the function. Possible extensions of this approach/technique are also discussed. While the value of this approach may be limited in terms of research, we think it definitely has pedagogical value.

10 pages, comments and suggestions are welcome