On the algebraic structure of second order symmetric tensors in 5-dimensional space-times (Q674833)

In general relativity, it is well-known that the curvature tensor can be uniquely decomposed into three irreducible parts, namely the Weyl tensor, the traceless Ricci tensor and the Ricci scalar. The algebraic classification of these tensors in 3- and 4-dimensional spacetimes has been discussed by several authors. In this paper the authors examine the algebraic structure of a second order symmetric tensor defined on 5-dimensional spacetimes. A new approach to the algebraic classification of second order symmetric tensors in 5-dimensional spacetimes is presented. The possible Segre types for a symmetric two-tensor are found. A set of canonical forms for each Segre type is obtained. A theorem which collects some basic results on the algebraic structure of the Ricci tensor in 5-dimensional spacetimes is also stated.