Metaphysics of colliding self-gravitating plane waves

Journal Article · Sun Apr 15 04:00:00 EST 1984 · Phys. Rev. D; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevD.29.1575· OSTI ID:7000699

Matzner, R A; Tipler, F J

We discuss certain global features of colliding plane-wave solutions to Einstein's equations. In particular, we show that the apparently local curvature singularities both in the Khan-Penrose solution and in the Bell-Szekeres solution are actually global. These global singularities are associated with the breakdown of nondegenerate planar symmetry in the characteristic initial data sets.

• Research Organization: Relativity Center, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas 78712
• OSTI ID: 7000699
• Journal Information: Phys. Rev. D; (United States), Journal Name: Phys. Rev. D; (United States) Journal Issue: 8 Vol. 29:8; ISSN PRVDA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

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657003 -- Theoretical & Mathematical Physics-- Relativity & Gravitation
71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS
BOUNDARY CONDITIONS
EINSTEIN FIELD EQUATIONS
EINSTEIN-MAXWELL EQUATIONS
EQUATIONS
FIELD EQUATIONS
FIELD THEORIES
GENERAL RELATIVITY THEORY
GRAVITATIONAL FIELDS
METRICS
SPACE-TIME
SYMMETRY BREAKING