On spinless null propagation in five dimensional space-times with approximate space-like Killing symmetry

TL;DR

This paper explores how approximate space-like symmetry in five-dimensional space-times influences the perception of spinless particle propagation, revealing that many concepts from exact symmetry cases still approximately apply.

Contribution

It extends the understanding of 5D space-time physics by analyzing cases with weak dependence on the fifth coordinate, bridging exact symmetry and more realistic scenarios.

Findings

Approximate symmetry preserves key quantum concepts.

Resonant scattering and decaying states are still meaningful.

Implications for nuclear physics and experimental setups.

Abstract

Five-dimensional (5D) space-time symmetry greatly facilitates how a 4D observer perceives the propagation of a single spinless particle in a 5D space-time. In particular, if the 5D geometry is independent of the fifth coordinate then the 5D physics may be interpreted as 4D quantum mechanics. In this work we address the case where symmetry is approximate, focusing on the case where the 5D geometry depends weakly on the fifth coordinate. We show that concepts developed for the case of exact symmetry approximately hold when other concepts such as decaying quantum states, resonant quantum scattering and Stokes drag are adopted, as well. We briefly comment on the optical model of the nuclear interactions and Millikan's oil drop experiment.