Fermion dynamics in torsion theories

TL;DR

This paper investigates the motion of spin-1/2 particles in Poincaré gauge theories of gravity using the WKB method and Mathisson-Papapetrou equations, highlighting differences and advantages of the approaches.

Contribution

It compares the WKB approximation with the Mathisson-Papapetrou approach for fermion dynamics in torsion theories and calculates specific trajectories.

Findings

WKB method offers advantages over Mathisson-Papapetrou equations.

Trajectories of fermions in a Poincaré gauge theory are computed.

Discussion on the experimental viability of measuring such fermion motions.

Abstract

In this work we have studied the non-geodesical behaviour of particles with spin 1/2 in Poincar\'e gauge theories of gravity, via the WKB method and the Mathisson-Papapetrou equation. We have analysed the relation between the two approaches and we have argued the different advantages associated with the WKB approximation. Within this approach, we have calculated the trajectories in a particular Poincar\'e gauge theory, discussing the viability of measuring such a motion.