English

Construction of initial data for 3+1 numerical relativity

General Relativity and Quantum Cosmology 2008-11-26 v2

Abstract

This lecture is devoted to the problem of computing initial data for the Cauchy problem of 3+1 general relativity. The main task is to solve the constraint equations. The conformal technique, introduced by Lichnerowicz and enhanced by York, is presented. Two standard methods, the conformal transverse-traceless one and the conformal thin sandwich, are discussed and illustrated by some simple examples. Finally a short review regarding initial data for binary systems (black holes and neutron stars) is given.

Keywords

Cite

@article{arxiv.0704.0149,
  title  = {Construction of initial data for 3+1 numerical relativity},
  author = {Eric Gourgoulhon},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:0704.0149},
  year   = {2008}
}

Comments

Minor modifications, updated references, 28 pages, 5 figures, contribution to the Proceedings of the VII Mexican School on Gravitation and Mathematical Physics, held in Playa del Carmen, Mexico (Nov. 26 - Dec. 2, 2006), Journal of Physics: Conference Series, in press