Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: We formulate a covariant version of Maxwell-like fracton electrodynamics in six dimensions using a symmetric tensor gauge field with scalar gauge symmetry δAμν=∂μ∂νΛ. This provides a relativistic setting in which the characteristic fractonic restriction on mobility follows directly from gauge invariance and the allowed coupling to matter. We construct the stress–energy tensor and show that its trace has a universal dimension-dependent structure that becomes a total derivative in d=6. In the presence of sources, the theory enforces conservation of charge and dipole moment, capturing the immobility of isolated charges and the mobility of dipolar bound states. This structure can also be viewed as a higher-moment form of generalized global symmetry.
Source: Symmetry
DOI: 10.3390/sym18040669
Author: Nicola Maggiore
Language: English
Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,896
OpenAlex ID: W7154705787