Split-quaternions and the Dirac equation (Q2340052): Difference between revisions

In this paper we find an explicit example of a finite unitary representation of the Lorentz group in terms of \(2 \times 2\) matrices over the split-quaternions. The author showed that this representation of the Lorentz group is naturally embedded inside the ten-dimensional unitary group. Thanks to this new formalism it was possible to state that the symmetry of the Lorentz invariant scalar is particularly transparent. The author also showed that the standard action of the Lorentz group on a Dirac 4-spinor is entirely equivalent to a split-quaternionic representation of the Lorentz group acting on a split-quaternionic 2-spinor. Moreover, the Dirac equation governing the 4-spinor has an equivalent formulation in terms of this same split-quaternionic 2-spinor This study may be useful to those interested in further investigating the role of split-quaternions and split-quaternionic analysis in modern physics.