Gauge symmetry for massless Klein-Gordon field

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on gauging the symmetry of the massless Klein-Gordon field represented by the transformation \(\phi \rightarrow \phi + a(x)\) for the Lagrangian \(L=\partial_\mu\phi\partial^\mu\phi\). The user seeks guidance on determining the appropriate form of the gauge field \(A_\mu\) and its placement within the Lagrangian to maintain gauge invariance. Key steps include understanding how the Lagrangian transforms under the gauge transformation and identifying a Lorentz invariant term of dimension 4 that incorporates \(A_\mu\) to achieve invariance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gauge transformations in quantum field theory (QFT)
  • Familiarity with the Klein-Gordon equation and its Lagrangian formulation
  • Knowledge of Lorentz invariance and dimensional analysis in field theories
  • Experience with phase transformations in quantum mechanics, particularly in the context of the Dirac equation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the role of gauge fields in quantum field theory, focusing on \(A_\mu\) and its properties
  • Study the derivation of gauge invariance for the Klein-Gordon field in detail
  • Examine examples of gauge-invariant Lagrangians in QFT literature
  • Learn about the implications of adding gauge fields to the Lagrangian and their transformation properties
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for theoretical physicists, graduate students in quantum field theory, and anyone interested in the principles of gauge invariance and its application to the Klein-Gordon field.

Plaetean
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Homework Statement


I need to gauge the symmetry:

<br /> \phi \rightarrow \phi + a(x)<br />

for the Lagrangian:
<br /> L=\partial_\mu\phi\partial^\mu\phi<br />

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


We did this in class for the Dirac equation with a phase transformation and I understood the method, but can't seem to figure out a way to apply the same approach to this field. All I have done so far is plug the transformation into the Lagrangian, but what I'm not sure about is what form the gauge field A_\mu needs to take, or even where in the Lagrangian to put it! I have a load of QFT books too but the only mention of gauge invariance in them is very brief, not at all comprehensive, and is way further into the book than I am currently. Any guidance on where to start or where to read further would be really appreciated. Thanks as always!
 
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Plaetean said:

Homework Statement


I need to gauge the symmetry:

<br /> \phi \rightarrow \phi + a(x)<br />

for the Lagrangian:
<br /> L=\partial_\mu\phi\partial^\mu\phi<br />

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


We did this in class for the Dirac equation with a phase transformation and I understood the method, but can't seem to figure out a way to apply the same approach to this field. All I have done so far is plug the transformation into the Lagrangian, but what I'm not sure about is what form the gauge field A_\mu needs to take, or even where in the Lagrangian to put it! I have a load of QFT books too but the only mention of gauge invariance in them is very brief, not at all comprehensive, and is way further into the book than I am currently. Any guidance on where to start or where to read further would be really appreciated. Thanks as always!
First: under that gauge transformation, how does the Lagrangian
<br /> L=\partial_\mu\phi\partial^\mu\phi<br /> transform?

Next, you have to add a term that contains A_\mu. It will have to be Lorentz invariant and be of dimension 4. What form can it take? Then you will have to see how the gauge field transforms to make the total Lagrangian invariant.
 

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