What software do people use for tensor manipulation in general relativity?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on software options for tensor manipulation in general relativity, highlighting user preferences and experiences. MathTensor is noted for its capabilities but is considered expensive. Participants mention the need for software that can handle abstract manipulations, particularly involving the Riemann and Weyl tensors. Maple and GRTensorII are also mentioned as satisfactory tools for tensor calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of tensor calculus in general relativity
  • Familiarity with Riemann and Weyl tensors
  • Knowledge of software tools like Maple and GRTensorII
  • Basic concepts of algebraic and differential identities
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the capabilities of MathTensor for abstract tensor manipulations
  • Explore advanced features of Maple for tensor calculations
  • Investigate GRTensorII and its applications in general relativity
  • Review the software list provided at http://math.ucr.edu/home/baez/RelWWW/software.html
USEFUL FOR

Researchers, physicists, and students in theoretical physics focusing on general relativity and tensor analysis will benefit from this discussion.

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What sort of software do people here like to use to mangle, errr I mean manipulate, Tensors in General Relativity?
 
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I use paper and pencil. :smile:

A while back, I heard that MathTensor is good (but expensive).

It seems lots of tensor software packages are used for calculating components. I'd be interested in one that helps me manipulates them abstractly (for example, calculations involving algebraic and differential identities satisfied by the Riemann and Weyl tensors).

You may have seen this list
http://math.ucr.edu/home/baez/RelWWW/software.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:
robphy said:
I use paper and pencil. :smile:

A while back, I heard that MathTensor is good (but expensive).

It seems lots of tensor software packages are used for calculating components. I'd be interested in one that helps me manipulates them abstractly (for example, calculations involving algebraic and differential identities satisfied by the Riemann and Weyl tensors).

You may have seen this list
http://math.ucr.edu/home/baez/RelWWW/software.html

I probably did read that list at one time - currently, I'm reasonably happy with Maple and GRTensorII, but I was wondering what other people here used.
 
Last edited by a moderator:

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