Gauge Symmetries in Physical Fields (Review)

Abstract

Gauge invariance is one of the fundamental symmetries in theoretical physics. In this paper, the gauge symmetry is reviewed to see how it is working in fundamental physical fields: Electromagnetism, Quantum Electro Dynamics and Geometric Theory of Gravity. In the 19th century, the gauge invariance was recognized as a mathematical non-uniqueness of the electromagnetic potentials. Real recognition of the gauge symmetry and its physical significance required two new fields developed in the 20 th century: the relativity theory for physics of the world structure of linked 4d-spacetime and the quantum mechanics for the new dimension of a phase factor in complex representation of wave function. Finally the gauge theory was formulated on the basis of the gauge principle which played a role of guiding principle in the study of physical fields such as Quantum Electrodynamics, Particle Physics and Theory of Gravitation. Fluid mechanics of a perfect fluid can join in this circles, which is another motivation of the present review. There is a hint of fluid gauge theory in the general representation of rotational flows of an ideal compressible fluid satisfying the Euler's equation, found in 2013 by the author. In fact, law of mass conservation can be deduced from the gauge symmetry equipped in the new system of fluid-flow field combined with a gauge field, rather than given a priori.