Understanding Gauge
I consider two usages of the expression “gauge theory.” On one, a gauge theory is a theory with excess structure; on the other, a gauge theory is any theory appropriately related to classical electromagnetism. I make precise one sense in which one formulation of electromagnetism, the paradigmatic gauge theory on both usages, may be understood to have excess structure and then argue that gauge theories on the second usage, including Yang-Mills theory and general relativity, do not generally have excess structure in this sense.
On Einstein Algebras and Relativistic Spacetimes ∗ Sarita
In this paper, we examine the relationship between general relativity and the theory of Einstein algebras. We show that according to a formal criterion for theoretical equivalence recently proposed by Halvorson (2012, 2015) and Weatherall (2015a), the two are equivalent theories.
Influence of electric fields on friction electrification between metals and borosilicate glass
Abstract In a cylindrical geometry, electric fields were applied through the entire contact area between the sliding metal and the glass surface. The maximum electric charges developed on the metal were measured and plotted against the applied voltage producing the field. The metals were high-purity nickel and gold. The borosilicate glass was Pyrex, brand 7740. The experiments with nickel, which has a work function greater than that of the glass, were performed in 10 −7 mm Hg vacuum. The experiments with gold, with a work function smaller than that of glass, were carried out in air at atmospheric pressure. The results show that: 1. 1) There is both asymmetry and a reversed slope portion in the charge vs. voltage plot. 2. 2) For a certain range of reversing fields, the electric charge developed on the nickel is always negative and the charge on gold is always positive.