Published 1978 | Version v1
Journal article

Scale symmetry and virial theorem

  • 1. Mathematics Department, The University of Zambia, Lusaka (Zambia)

Description

Scale symmetry (or dilatation invariance) is discussed in terms of Noether's Theorem expressed in terms of a symmetry group action on phase space endowed with a symplectic structure. The conventional conceptual approach expressing invariance of some Hamiltonian under scale transformations is re-expressed in alternate form by infinitesimal automorphisms of the given symplectic structure. That is, the vector field representing scale transformations leaves the symplectic structure invariant. In this model, the conserved quantity or constant of motion related to scale symmetry is the virial. It is shown that the conventional virial theorem can be derived within this framework

Additional details

Publishing Information

Journal Title
Ann. Inst. Henri Poincare, Sect. A
Journal Volume
29
Journal Issue
4
Series
Ann. Inst. Henri Poincare, Sect. A.
Journal Page Range
415-422
ISSN
0020-2339

INIS