Gauge theory of a massive relativistic spinning point particle

Abstract

A massive relativistic spinning point particle in any number of dimensions has in a previous article been shown to be described by first class constraints, which define a gauge theory. In the present paper we find the corresponding finite gauge transformations. By comparing the integrated gauge transformations to transformation equations found by Pryce, we conclude that the selection of gauge corresponds to selection of the relativistic center of mass frame in the model of Pryce, where a spinning particle is considered a composite object. The Lorentz group is identified as the gauge group, and as gauge field we identify the relativistic angular velocity. We also show that an analogous physical interpretation is possible for the relativistic spherical top of Hanson and Regge.