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Algebraic computing and the Newman-Penrose formalism in general relativity

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Abstract

The curvature tensor of space-time can be described most concisely by giving the components of the Weyl and Ricci tensors relative to a complex null tetrad. The Newman-Penrose equations provide a simple and direct algorithm for calculating these components. This paper describes a computer program, written in the symbolic manipulation language CAMAL, which performs this calculation. Comparisons are made with the classical tensorial method of calculation, and some applications are discussed.

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Campbell, S.J., Wainwright, J. Algebraic computing and the Newman-Penrose formalism in general relativity. Gen Relat Gravit 8, 987–1001 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00759742

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