Physics – Classical Physics
Scientific paper
2004-04-21
Found.Phys. 35 (2005) 2007-2025
Physics
Classical Physics
Revtex, 19 pages, 2 eps figures, invited contribution to the Festschrift for Asher Peres' 70th birthday, editor C.A. Fuchs, su
Scientific paper
10.1007/s10701-005-8659-y
In accordance with an old suggestion of Asher Peres (1962), we consider the electromagnetic field as fundamental and the metric as a subsidiary field. In following up this thought, we formulate Maxwell's theory in a diffeomorphism invariant and metric-independent way. The electromagnetic field is then given in terms of the excitation $H=(H,D)$ and the field strength $F=(E,B)$. Additionally, a local and linear ``spacetime relation'' is assumed between $H$ and $F$, namely $H \sim \kappa F$, with the constitutive tensor $\kappa$. The propagation is studied of electromagnetic wave fronts (surfaces of discontinuity) with a method of Hadamard. We find a generalized Fresnel equation that is quartic in the wave covector of the wave front. We discuss under which conditions the waves propagate along the light cone. Thereby we derive the metric of spacetime, up to a conformal factor, by purely electromagnetic methods.
Hehl Friedrich W.
~Obukhov Yuri N.
No associations
LandOfFree
To consider the electromagnetic field as fundamental, and the metric only as a subsidiary field does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with To consider the electromagnetic field as fundamental, and the metric only as a subsidiary field, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and To consider the electromagnetic field as fundamental, and the metric only as a subsidiary field will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-18788