Relativistic quantum mechanics of the Majorana particle: quaternions, paired plane waves, and orthogonal representations of the Poincar\'e group

TL;DR

This paper explores the relativistic quantum mechanics of Majorana particles, focusing on the axial momentum operator, quaternionic solutions, and orthogonal Poincaré group representations, revealing new insights into their mathematical structure and physical implications.

Contribution

It introduces a new motivation for the axial momentum operator, connects solutions to quaternions, and uncovers orthogonal Poincaré group representations suited for Majorana particles.

Findings

Heisenberg uncertainty relation for axial momentum confirmed

Solutions involve quaternionic structures and asymmetric plane wave pairs

Orthogonal Poincaré group representations consistent with Majorana particles identified

Abstract

The standard momentum operator $-i \nabla$ can not be accepted as observable in relativistic quantum mechanics of the Majorana particle. Instead, one can use axial momentum operator recently proposed in Phys. Lett. A {\bf383}, 1242 (2019). In the present paper we report several new results related to the axial momentum which elucidate its usability. First, a new motivation for the axial momentum is given, and the Heisenberg uncertainty relation checked. Next, we show that the general solution of time evolution equation in the axial momentum basis has a connection with quaternions. Single traveling plane waves are not possible in the massive case, but there exist solutions which consist of asymmetric pair of plane waves traveling in opposite directions. Finally, pertinent real orthogonal and irreducible representation of the Poincar\'e group -- consistent with the lack of antiparticle -- is unveiled.