# A hidden constraint on the Hamiltonian formulation of relativistic worldlines

## TL;DR

This paper reveals a hidden local symmetry in the Hamiltonian formulation of relativistic worldlines, which simplifies path integral quantization and impacts the understanding of gauge theories with general covariance.

## Contribution

It identifies a previously unnoticed local symmetry constraint in the Hamiltonian formulation of relativistic particles, aiding quantization methods.

## Key findings

- Hidden local symmetry exists in the Hamiltonian formulation.
- This symmetry simplifies path integral quantization.
- The symmetry is more evident in the Lagrangian form.

## Abstract

Gauge theories with general covariance are particularly reluctant to quantization. We discuss the example of the Hamiltonian formulation of the relativistic point particle that, despite its apparent simplicity, is of crucial importance since a number of point particle systems can be cast into this form on a higher dimensional Rindler background, as recently pointed out by Hojman. It is shown that this system can be equipped with a hidden local, symmetry generating, constraint which on the one hand does not bother the classical evolution and on the other hand simplifies the realization of the path integral quantization. Even though the positive impact of the hidden symmetry is more evident in the Lagrangian version of the theory, it is still present through the suggested Hamiltonian constraint.