Graded Lie algebras of derivations and Ehresmann connections (Q1820441)

Let \(\pi\) : \(E\to M\) be a locally trivial fibration. The authors show that the derivations of basic forms on E constitute a graded Lie algebra over the graded ring of basic forms and utilize this formalism in the study of the differential calculus associated with an Ehresmann connection (i.e. a splitting of an exact sequence of vector bundles) on E. Some applications of the theory in the study of Euler-Lagrange equations in dynamics, equations of geodesics in general relativity, etc., are also tackled.