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Incomplete Dirac reduction of constrained Hamiltonian systems

Journal Article · · Annals of Physics

First-class constraints constitute a potential obstacle to the computation of a Poisson bracket in Dirac’s theory of constrained Hamiltonian systems. Using the pseudoinverse instead of the inverse of the matrix defined by the Poisson brackets between the constraints, we show that a Dirac–Poisson bracket can be constructed, even if it corresponds to an incomplete reduction of the original Hamiltonian system. The uniqueness of Dirac brackets is discussed. The relevance of this procedure for infinite dimensional Hamiltonian systems is exemplified.

OSTI ID:
22451228
Journal Information:
Annals of Physics, Journal Name: Annals of Physics Vol. 361; ISSN 0003-4916; ISSN APNYA6
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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