Geometric interpretation of the mixed invariants of the Riemann spinor (Q1915101): Difference between revisions

In this paper the author uses invariants to classify the Riemann spinor for null and non-null Einstein-Maxwell fields and for perfect fluid spacetimes. The paper begins with a discussion of pure invariants of the Weyl spinor and of the Ricci spinor and also of their mutual mixed invariants. The concept of a complete set of invariants with respect to a group action is also introduced here. The second section of the paper deals with the classification of a pair of symmetric spinors. The cases non-null/non-null, null/non-null and null/null are distinguished and then refined (by reference to the usual alignment and non-alignment) by use of the two invariants associated with the two spinors and their mixed invariant. The results are conveniently tabulated. Various pure and mixed invariants of the Weyl and Ricci spinors (together with alignment possibilities) are then applied to null and non-null Einstein-Maxwell fields and to perfect fluid spacetimes and their Petrov types. The general approach of the paper is through spinors and is geometrical (and very well written) throughout.