Integral over Grassmann variable in the holomorphic representation

In summary, the conversation discusses how to show that a certain integral involving Grassmann numbers is equal to the delta function. The solution involves expanding to first order in the Grassmann algebra and using the fact that the variable theta can act as a delta function around 0. The analogy is seen in the fact that the integral of a function times the variable theta is equal to the function evaluated at 0. The conversation also touches on the relationship between the integral of a function and the delta function.
  • #1
Stalafin
21
0

Homework Statement


Show that [tex]\int d\theta e^{\theta(\xi-\eta)}=\delta(\xi-\eta)[/tex],
where all of the above variable are Grassmann numbers. All this is in the holomorphic representation, where for some generic function:
[tex]f(\theta)=f_0 + f_1\theta[/tex]

Homework Equations


How do I arrive at that bloody delta? As explained below, I see the analogy where theta all by itself acts like a delta function. But from there on...?

The Attempt at a Solution


Obviously, by expanding to first order according to the Grassmann algebra (all orders above the first vanish):
[tex]=\int d\theta 1+\theta(\xi-\eta) = \xi-\eta[/tex]

What I do get is that the theta all by itself acts like a delta-function around 0 (taking the generic function above):
[tex]\int d\theta \theta f(\theta) = \int d\theta (f_1 + \theta f_2) = f_1 = f(0)[/tex]

This we could have also written as:
[tex]\int d\theta f(\theta)\delta(\theta - 0) = f(0)[/tex]

Where is the analogy?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Does not

[tex]\int d\xi\ (\xi-\eta)f(\xi)=\int d\xi\ (\xi-\eta)(f_1+\xi f_2)=\int d\xi\ (\xi f_1-\eta f_1+\xi\eta f_2)=f_1+\eta f_2=f(\eta)[/tex]

imply

[tex](\xi-\eta)=\delta(\xi-\eta)?[/tex]
 
  • #3
Hey! Thanks for your reply. Yes, I discussed this with a friend today, and we came to the same conclusion.

Thanks!
 

1. What is an integral over Grassmann variables in the holomorphic representation?

An integral over Grassmann variables in the holomorphic representation is a mathematical operation used in quantum field theory and string theory to calculate amplitudes and correlation functions. It involves integrating over anti-commuting Grassmann numbers, which do not follow the usual rules of multiplication and addition.

2. How is an integral over Grassmann variables in the holomorphic representation different from a regular integral?

An integral over Grassmann variables in the holomorphic representation is different from a regular integral because it involves anti-commuting variables, which do not follow the usual rules of multiplication and addition. This means that the order of integration matters and the integral of a product of Grassmann variables is not equal to the product of their individual integrals.

3. What applications does the integral over Grassmann variables in the holomorphic representation have?

The integral over Grassmann variables in the holomorphic representation has various applications in theoretical physics, particularly in quantum field theory and string theory. It is used to calculate amplitudes and correlation functions, which are important quantities for understanding particle interactions and the behavior of strings in different dimensions.

4. How is the integral over Grassmann variables in the holomorphic representation calculated?

The integral over Grassmann variables in the holomorphic representation is calculated using the rules of integration for anti-commuting variables. These rules include the Grassmann version of the fundamental theorem of calculus and the Cauchy-Riemann conditions. It is also important to keep track of the order of integration and use appropriate manipulations to simplify the integrand.

5. What are the benefits of using the holomorphic representation for an integral over Grassmann variables?

The holomorphic representation is a convenient way to perform integrals over Grassmann variables because it allows for the use of complex analysis techniques. It also simplifies the calculation of correlation functions in string theory and can lead to elegant solutions for certain problems. Additionally, the holomorphic representation is closely related to supersymmetry, making it a useful tool for studying this important concept in theoretical physics.

Similar threads

  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
822
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
0
Views
555
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
841
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
604
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
808
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
19
Views
832
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
Back
Top