Dirac Gamma matrices in the (-+++) metric

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the representation of Dirac gamma matrices in the (-+++) metric, contrasting with the typical +--- metric representation. Key references include Steven Weinberg's "Quantum Theory of Fields, vol. I," which provides a representation on page 216, and Srednicki's text, which also addresses gamma matrices in the (-+++) signature but with differing conventions. Participants confirm the relevance of these texts for understanding the gamma matrices under the specified metric.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Dirac gamma matrices
  • Familiarity with metric signatures in quantum field theory
  • Knowledge of supersymmetry concepts
  • Basic comprehension of anticommutator relations
NEXT STEPS
  • Read "Quantum Theory of Fields, vol. I" by Steven Weinberg for gamma matrix representations
  • Examine Srednicki's text for alternative conventions on gamma matrices
  • Explore "Tools for Supersymmetry" by Van Proeyen for additional context
  • Investigate the implications of different metric signatures in quantum field theory
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, graduate students in theoretical physics, and researchers focusing on quantum field theory and supersymmetry who require a deeper understanding of Dirac gamma matrices in various metric signatures.

brennan_t
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Hi,

The typical representation of the Dirac gamma matrices are designed for the +--- metric. For example

/gamma^0 = [1 & 0 \\ 0 & -1] , /gamma^i = [0 & /sigma^i \\ - /sigma^i & 0]

this corresponds to the metric +---

Does anyone know a representation of the gamma matrices for -+++?

Can you refer me to a published article or text?

Thank you!

Thomas Brennan
Research Assistant Professor
West Virginia Wesleyan College.
 
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Look for instance at "Tools for supersymmetry" by Van Proeyen, or "Supersymmetry and Gauge theory" by Lambert.
 
Weinberg, vol I uses the (-+++) signature, and gives a representation of the Dirac matrices on p.216.
 
Bill_K:

Thanks, what is the rest of the title? Steven Weinberg has written several books...

Is it the 'Quantum Theory of Fields, vol. I"

I think I answered my own question. Thanks.
 
Last edited:
Yes, that's the book.

Srednicki's text (downloadable from his web page) also has gamma matrices in (-+++) signature. But IIRC his conventions are not the same as Weinberg's.
 
Yes, that's the book.

Srednicki's text (downloadable from his web page) also has gamma matrices in (-+++) signature. But IIRC his conventions are not the same as Weinberg's.

Actually I think Srednicki's gamma matrices are the same as yours. But he puts an extra minus sign on the RHS of the anticommutator:

\{\gamma^\mu,\gamma^\nu\}=-2\eta^{\mu\nu}
 

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