xTras: a field-theory inspired xAct package for Mathematica

TL;DR

xTras is a Mathematica package built on xAct that simplifies tensor calculations in classical field theory, including contractions, ansätze, and tensorial equations, enhancing computational efficiency.

Contribution

It introduces xTras, a new package that extends xAct with specialized functions for classical field theory tensor computations.

Findings

Enables efficient tensor contractions and manipulations.

Supports solving tensorial equations and creating ansätze.

Integrates seamlessly with xAct for enhanced functionality.

Abstract

We present the tensor computer algebra package xTras, which provides functions and methods frequently needed when doing (classical) field theory. Amongst others, it can compute contractions, make Ans\"atze, and solve tensorial equations. It is built upon the tensor computer algebra system xAct, a collection of packages for Mathematica.