Momentum maps and Noether theorem for generalized Nambu mechanics

Abstract

In Ref.~\cite{Sag} we proposed a geometric formulation of generalized Nambu mechanics. In the present paper we extend the class of Nambu systems by replacing the stringent condition of constancy of 3-form by closedness. We also explore the connection between continuous groups of symmetries and conservation laws for such systems. The Noether theorem for generalized Nambu systems is formulated by generalizing the notion of momentum map. In this case, a natural choice of dynamical variables for discussion of symmetries is 2-form fields. Thus the generators and the conserved quantities in Noether theorem are best expressed in terms of 2-forms. The connection between the generators and the conserved quantities is illustrated with the example of an axially symmetric top formulated as three dimensional Nambu system.