Structure of the post-Newtonian expansion in general relativity

Abstract

In the continuation of a preceding work, we derive a new expression for the metric in the near zone of an isolated matter system in post-Newtonian approximations of general relativity. The post-Newtonian metric, a solution of the field equations in harmonic coordinates, is formally valid up to any order, and is cast in the form of a particular solution of the wave equation, plus a specific homogeneous solution which ensures the asymptotic matching to the multipolar expansion of the gravitational field in the exterior of the system. The new form is suitable for practical computations of the gravitational radiation reaction forces in harmonic coordinates. It also provides some insights on the structure of the post-Newtonian expansion in general relativity and the radiation reaction terms therein.