Circulation in the flow of electricity: Dirac’s new variables

Abstract

Kelvin’s circulation theorems are shown to be applicable to the generalized momentum vector in the relativistic flow of electricity. Vortex filaments become ‘vortex ribbons’ in space-time and Dirac’s variables ξ and ɳ are identified as the parameters which characterize the family of vortex ribbons. The physical reality of discrete ribbons of strength ħ is suggested, speculatively.