An introduction to the theory of the Kerr metric and its perturbations

The chapter begins with an elementary account of the Newman-Penrose formalism and proceeds to the study of the basic problems in the theory of the perturbations of the Kerr metric. The main section headings are: the tetrad formalism; the Newman-Penrose formalism; tetrad transformations and related matters; the Kerr metric and the perturbation problem; the solution of Maxwell's equations; gravitational perturbations; the solution of Dirac's equation; the potential barriers surrounding the Kerr black hole and the problem of reflection and transmission; concluding remarks on the properties of the Kerr metric. (U.K.)