The algebraic structure of relativistic wave equations

Abstract

The algebraic structure of relativistic wave equations of the formis considered. This leads to the problem of finding all Lie algebrasLwhich contain the Lorentz Lie algebraso(3, 1) and also contain a “four-vector” αμa such anLgives rise to a family of wave equations. The simplest possibility is the Bhabha equations whereL≅so(5). Some authors have claimed that this is theonlyone, but it is shown that there are many other possibilities still in accord with physical requirements. Known facts about representations, along with Dynkin's theory of the embeddings of Lie algebras, are used to obtain a partial classification of wave equations. The discrete transformationsC, P, Tare also discussed, along with reality properties. Finally, a simple example of a family of wave equations based onL=sp(12) is considered in detail. Theso(3, 1) content and mass spectra are given for the low order members of the family, and the problem of causality is briefly discussed.