Gauge-independent Theory of Symmetry. I.

Abstract

The invariance of a system under a given transformation of coordinates is usually taken to mean that its Lagrangian is invariant under that transformation. Consequently, whether or not the system is invariant will depend on the gauge used in describing the system. By defining invariance of a system to mean the invariance of its equations of motion, a gauge-independent theory of symmetry properties is obtained for classical mechanics in both the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian forms. The conserved quantities associated with continuous symmetry transformations are obtained. The system of a single particle moving in a given electromagnetic field is considered in detail for various symmetries of the electromagnetic field, and the appropriate conserved quantities are found.