(i) Using the condition that the metric tensor gab is covariantly constant, derive an expression for the Christoffel symbol Γbca=Γcba.
(ii) Show that
Γbaa=21gacgac,b
Hence establish the covariant divergence formula
V;aa=−g1∂xa∂(−gVa)
where g is the determinant of the metric tensor.
[It may be assumed that ∂a(logdetM)=trace(M−1∂aM) for any invertible matrix M ].
(iii) The Kerr-Newman metric, describing the spacetime outside a rotating black hole of mass M, charge Q and angular momentum per unit mass a, is given in appropriate units by
where ρ2=r2+a2cos2θ and Δ=r2−2Mr+a2+Q2. Explain why this metric is stationary, and make a choice of one of the parameters which reduces it to a static metric.
Show that, in the static metric obtained, the equation
(gabΦ,b);a=0
for a function Φ=Φ(t,r) admits solutions of the form
Φ=sin(ωt)R(r)
where ω is constant and R(r) satisfies an ordinary differential equation which should be found.