The covariant approach to static spacetimes in Einstein and extended gravity theories

Abstract

We present a covariant study of static space-times, as such and as solutions of gravity theories. By expressing the relevant tensors through the velocity and the acceleration vectors that characterise static space-times, the field equations provide a natural non-redundant set of scalar equations. The same vectors suggest the form of a Faraday tensor, that is studied in itself and in (non)-linear electrodynamics. In spherical symmetry, we evaluate the explicit expressions of the Ricci, the Weyl, the Cotton and the Bach tensors. Simple restrictions on the coefficients yield well known and new solutions in Einstein, f(R), Cotton and Conformal gravity, with or without charges, in vacuo or with fluid source.