Subgroups of Clifford algebras

Abstract

Clifford algebras are used for constructing spin groups, and are therefore of particular importance in the theory of quantum mechanics. But the spin group is not the only subgroup of the Clifford algebra. An algebraist's perspective on these groups and algebras may suggest ways in which they might be applied more widely to describe the fundamental properties of matter. I do not claim to build a physical theory on top of the fundamental algebra, and my suggestions for possible physical interpretations are indicative only, and may not work. Nevertheless, both the existence of three generations of fermions and the symmetry-breaking of the weak interaction seem to emerge naturally from an extension of the Dirac algebra from complex numbers to quaternions.