Maxwell-Like Equations for Free Dirac Electrons

Abstract

Abstract In this article, we show that the wave equation for a free Dirac electron can be represented in a form that is analogous to Maxwell’s electrodynamics. The electron bispinor wavefunction is explicitly expressed in terms of its real and imaginary components. This leads us to incorporate into it appropriate scalar and pseudo-scalar fields in advance, so that a full symmetry may be accomplished. The Dirac equation then takes on a form similar to that of a set of inhomogeneous Maxwell’s equations involving a particular self-source. We relate plane wave solutions of these equations to waves corresponding to free Dirac electrons, identifying the longitudinal component of the electron motion, together with the corresponding Zitterbewegung (“trembling motion”).