Expressing Feynman Green's function as a 4-momentum integral

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the expression of Feynman Green's function as a 4-momentum integral, specifically addressing the confusion surrounding the interpretation of the variables (z', p) as a 4-vector. Participants clarify that while traditional 4-vectors are Lorentz covariant, the introduction of integration variables like z' in conjunction with momentum p is permissible due to the properties of the restricted Lorentz group, particularly the preservation of time orientation through the use of the Heaviside step function, ##\theta(x^0 - y^0)##. This understanding allows for a valid representation in momentum space.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of 4-vectors and Lorentz covariance
  • Familiarity with Feynman Green's functions
  • Knowledge of the Heaviside step function, ##\theta(x)##
  • Basic concepts of momentum space in quantum field theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of the restricted Lorentz group and its implications in physics
  • Explore the derivation and applications of Feynman Green's functions in quantum field theory
  • Learn about the role of integration variables in theoretical physics
  • Investigate the mathematical foundations of momentum space representations
USEFUL FOR

The discussion is beneficial for theoretical physicists, quantum field theorists, and advanced students seeking to deepen their understanding of Feynman Green's functions and the mathematical structures underlying 4-momentum integrals.

realanswers
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I am a bit confused on how we can just say that (z',p) form a 4-vector. In my head, four vectors are sacred objects that are Lorentz covariant, but now we introduced some new variable and say it forms a 4-vector with momentum. I understand that these are just integration variables but I still do not see how this is okay. The interpretation of z' now is different.
 
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realanswers said:
I am a bit confused on how we can just say that (z',p) form a 4-vector. In my head, four vectors are sacred objects that are Lorentz covariant, but now we introduced some new variable and say it forms a 4-vector with momentum. I understand that these are just integration variables but I still do not see how this is okay. The interpretation of z' now is different.
But where did it come from? ##\theta(x^0 - y^0)##, right? The restricted Lorentz group (identity-connected part) preserves time orientation, so it's ok to use ##\theta(x^0 - y^0)## in that circumstance. The rest just involves expressing it in momentum space.
 
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