Classification of Second Order Symmetric Tensors in 5-Dimensional Kaluza-Klein-Type Theories

Abstract

An algebraic classification of second order symmetric tensors in 5-dimensional Kaluza-Klein-type Lorentzian spaces is presented by using Jordan matrices. We show that the possible Segre types are $[1,1111]$, [2111], [311], [z,\bar{z},111], and the degeneracies thereof. A set of canonical forms for each Segre type is found. The possible continuous groups of symmetry for each canonical form are also studied.