Covariant Energy Momentum Tensor in General Relativity by Generalized Canonical Method

Abstract

Defining a complete and covariant energy-momentum tensor in general relativity is a longstanding issue of concern. A widely attempted approach is to define it as a pseudo-tensor in an asymptotic Lorentz system. In this paper, we present a complete covariant definition of the gravitational energy-momentum tensor in the generalized canonical form. The key is incorporate higher-order differential terms of the metric tensor into the gravitational action in order to derive the energy-momentum tensor consistently. This completely covariant form ensures that the gravitational energy is correctly obtained in any coordinate system, including polar coordinates and asymptotic Lorentz systems.