Geometry of crossing null shells

Abstract

New geometric objects on null thin layers are introduced and their importance for crossing null-like shells are discussed. The Barrab\`es--Israel equations are represented in a new geometric form and they split into decoupled system of equations for two different geometric objects: tensor density ${\bf G}^a{_b}$ and vector field $I$. Continuity properties of these objects through a crossing sphere are proved. In the case of spherical symmetry Dray--t'Hooft--Redmount formula results from continuity property of the corresponding object.