Quantum Theory of Localizable Dynamical Systems

P. A. M. Dirac
Phys. Rev. 73, 1092 – Published 1 May 1948
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Abstract

A dynamical system is called localizable if its wave functions can be expressed in terms of variables, each referring to physical conditions at only one point in space-time. These variables may be at points on any three-dimensional space-like surface in space-time.

A general investigation is made of how the wave function varies when the surface is varied in any way. The variation of the wave function is given by equations of the Schrödinger type involving certain operators Hn(u) which play the role of Hamiltonians. The commutation relations for these operators are obtained (Eqs. (50), (51)). The theory works entirely with relativistic concepts and it provides the general pattern which any relativistic quantum theory must conform to, provided the dynamical system is localizable.

  • Received 12 January 1948

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRev.73.1092

©1948 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

P. A. M. Dirac

  • Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton, New Jersey

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Vol. 73, Iss. 9 — May 1948

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