Extensions of GR using Projective-Invariance

Abstract

We show that the unification of electromagnetism and gravity into a single geometrical entity can be beautifully accomplished in a theory with non-symmetric affine connection (${\Gamma}_{\mu\nu}^{\lambda}\neq{\Gamma}_{\nu\mu}^{\lambda}$), and the unifying symmetry being projective symmetry. In addition, we show that in a purely-affine theory where there are no constrains on the symmetry of ${\Gamma}_{\mu\nu}^{\lambda}$, the electromagnetic field can be interpreted as the field that preserves projective-invariance. The matter Lagrangian breaks the projective-invariance, generating classical relativistic gravity and quantum electromagnetism. We notice that, if we associate the electromagnetic field tensor with the second Ricci tensor and ${\Gamma}_{[\mu\nu]}^{\nu}$ with the vector potential, then the classical Einstein-Maxwell equation can be obtained. In addition, we explain the geometrical interpretation of projective transformations. Finally, we discuss the importance of the role of projective-invariance in f(R) gravity theories.