Mixing of scalar and tensor metric perturbations

Abstract: Metric perturbations in General Relativity are usually separated into three distinct classes: scalar, vector, and tensor. In many cases these modes are separable, i.e. they satisfy independent equations of motion for each mode. However, in the present paper we argue that in many cases tensor and scalar modes are not separable, no matter what gauge conditions are chosen. The propagation of any of these mode depends on the other. A realistic example providing such mixing is presented.