Evolution equations for a wide range of Einstein-matter systems

Abstract

We use an orthonormal frame approach to provide a general framework for the first order hyperbolic reduction of the Einstein equations coupled to a fairly generic class of matter models. Our analysis covers the special cases of dust and perfect fluid. We also provide a discussion of self-gravitating elastic matter. The frame is Fermi-Walker propagated and coordinates are chosen such as to satisfy the Lagrange condition. We show the propagation of the constraints of the Einstein-matter system.