Einstein gravitational field equations
Spacetime curvature responds to stress and energy.
Key knowledge
With the stated curvature convention, classical general relativity obeys G_μν + Λg_μν = (8πG/c⁴)T_μν, where G_μν = R_μν − ½Rg_μν.
Values and equations
R_μν − ½Rg_μν + Λg_μν = (8πG/c⁴)T_μν
- R_μν, R
- Ricci curvature tensor and scalar in length coordinates m⁻²
- g_μν
- Metric components in length coordinates
- Λ
- Cosmological constant m⁻²
- G
- Newtonian gravitational constant m³ kg⁻¹ s⁻²
- c
- Vacuum light speed m s⁻¹
- T_μν
- Stress-energy components in this coordinate convention J m⁻³
Conditions and scope
- Use Carroll's curvature convention and metric signature (−,+,+,+); x⁰ = ct with length-valued coordinates.
- Boundary/initial data and matter equations are needed; Λ is kept on the left and is not also included as vacuum energy in T_μν.
Sources · 1
References
Sources retain their recorded scope. A source link alone does not establish verification of every statement.
Evidence and review
Equations 4.43, 4.51–4.52 and 4.74: coupling normalization and cosmological term; c restored by SI dimensional conversion.
2026-10-10 · Classical field equation only; no quantum-gravity validity or solved spacetime claim.
Entry details
Permanent link to this entry ↗- Record identity
- physics-einstein-field-equations
- Revision
- university-reference.1
- Structured reference record
- University reference