The CPT theorem in Weinberg Book, Vol I

Click For Summary
The discussion focuses on two key questions regarding the CPT theorem in Weinberg's Book, Volume I. The first question addresses the choice of phases for particles, specifically why it is possible to set the intrinsic time reversal factor, ζ, to 1, allowing for the simplification of other transformation factors. The second question pertains to Weinberg's assertion that a Hermitian scalar interaction density must consist of tensors with an even total number of spacetime indices, with the reasoning being that this ensures all indices are contracted to form a scalar. The participants explore the implications of these concepts on the understanding of particle transformations and interactions. Overall, the discussion delves into the mathematical foundations of the CPT theorem as presented by Weinberg.
wphysics
Messages
27
Reaction score
0
I have been following Winberg Book, volume I.
I am currently working on chapter 5.8, the CPT theorem.

I have two questions in this chapter.

First one is, why can we choose the phases so that all particles
\zeta \xi \eta = 1
I tried to solve this problem by assuming that this is possible because \zeta (intrinsic time reversal factor)has no physics significance and we can determine it arbitrarily. But, I am not sure whether this is true.
If my assumption is true, then we can do the same thing to PT or CT transformation, can't we?

Second one is, at the end of Pg 245, Weinberg said "A Hermitian scalar interaction density H(x) must be formed from tensors with an even total number of spacetime indices".
Is the reason that to make H(x) scalar, we have to make all spacetime indices be contracted to one another. But, I am not sure my argument here is right, either.

Thank you.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
First one is, why can we choose the phases so that all particles ζξη=1
For example for a scalar field φ(x), if you change it by a constant phase, φ(x) → eφ(x), then by (5.8.1), ζξη → e2iα ζξη. So you can choose α to make ζξη real and positive.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 333 ·
12
Replies
333
Views
19K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K