Dirac Gamma Matrices: Is Invariance Under Lorentz Transformation?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the invariance of the Dirac gamma matrices, specifically the gamma matrix \(\gamma^5\), under Lorentz transformations. It is established that while the four gamma matrices \(\gamma^i\) (where \(i=0...3\)) are invariant, the expression for \(\gamma^5\) involving the Levi-Civita symbol \(\epsilon_{\mu\nu\rho\sigma}\) indicates that \(\gamma^5\) behaves as a pseudo-scalar. Therefore, \(\gamma^5\) is not invariant under Lorentz transformations, contradicting the initial assumption based on the invariance of the product of the gamma matrices.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Dirac gamma matrices
  • Familiarity with Lorentz transformations
  • Knowledge of pseudo-scalars and scalars in physics
  • Basic grasp of tensor notation and the Levi-Civita symbol
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of Dirac gamma matrices in quantum field theory
  • Research the implications of pseudo-scalar quantities in relativistic physics
  • Explore the role of the Levi-Civita symbol in tensor calculus
  • Learn about Lorentz invariance and its significance in theoretical physics
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The discussion is beneficial for theoretical physicists, students of quantum mechanics, and anyone studying the mathematical foundations of particle physics, particularly those interested in the properties of gamma matrices and Lorentz transformations.

eoghan
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Hi!
I can define
\gamma^5=i\gamma^0\gamma^1\gamma^2\gamma^3
I know that the four gamma matrices \gamma^i\:\:,\;i=0...3 are invariant under a Lorentz transformation. So I can say that also \gamma ^5 is invariant, because it is a product of invariant matrices.
But this equality holds:
\gamma ^5=\frac{i}{4!}\epsilon_{\mu\nu\rho\sigma}\gamma^{\mu}\gamma^{\nu}\gamma^{\rho}\gamma^{\sigma}
and this expression is not invariant!
So, is \gamma^5 invariant or isn't it?
 
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\gamma^\mu transforms like a 4-vector.
 
But \gamma^5 transforms like a pseudo-scalar because of \epsilon_{\mu\nu\rho\sigma}
 

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