Gauge-invariant and covariant operators in gauge theories (Q2638572)

The Euler-Lagrange-type operators that are not necessarily derivable from a variational principle are studied. The formula for the Lie derivative of E-L operators, called master equation, is established. This formula consists of two terms, the vanishing of one of them refers to the condition that the operator under consideration is variational, the vanishing of the other refers to the conservation law. A relationship between the gauge invariance of locally variational operators and the charge conservation identity is established. A sufficient condition for the locally variational and gauge-invariant E-L operators to be generally covariant is derived.