Some exact solutions in general relativity

In this thesis four separate problems in general relativity are considered, divided into two separate themes: coordinate conditions and perfect fluid spheres. Regarding coordinate conditions we present a pedagogical discussion of how the appropriate use of coordinate conditions can lead to simplifications in the form of the spacetime curvature -- such tricks are often helpful when seeking specific exact solutions of the Einstein equations. Regarding perfect fluid spheres we present several methods of transforming any given perfect fluid sphere into a possibly new perfect fluid sphere. This is done in three qualitatively distinct manners: The first set of solution generating theorems apply in Schwarzschild curvature coordinates, and are phrased in terms of the metric components: they show how to transform one static spherical perfect fluid spacetime geometry into another. A second set of solution generating theorems extends these ideas to other coordinate systems (such as isotropic, Gaussian polar, Buchdahl, Synge, and exponential coordinates), again working directly in terms of the metric components. Finally, the solution generating theorems are rephrased in terms of the TOV equation and density and pressure profiles. Most of the relevant calculations are carried out analytically, though some numerical explorations are also carried out.