Abstract
We are taught that gauge transformations in classical and quantum mechanics do not change the physics of the problem. Nevertheless, here we discuss three broad scenarios where under gauge transformations: (i) conservation laws are not preserved in the usual manner; (ii) non-gaugeinvariant quantities can be associated with physical observables; and (iii) there are changes in the physical boundary conditions of the wave function that render it non-single-valued. We give worked examples that illustrate these points, in contrast to general opinions from classic texts. We also give a historical perspective on the development of Abelian gauge theory in relation to our particular points. Our aim is to provide a discussion of these issues at the graduate level.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 616-625 |
| Number of pages | 10 |
| Journal | American Journal of Physics |
| Volume | 84 |
| Issue number | 8 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - 1 Aug 2016 |
| Externally published | Yes |
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