Dual symmetry of quantum electrodynamics

Abstract

Thus, the introduction of a magnetic charge into electrodynamics from the point of view of dual symmetry arguments is not only justified but necessary. In this case one achieves mutual consistency between the symmetry of the Maxwell equations with sources and the free Maxwell equations. However, Maxwell's equations can be symmetrized without introducing a new type of particle (Dirac monopole). Treating the known particles as doubly-charged particles is selfconsistent and does not contradict experimental data if there is a universal ratio of the electric and the magnetic charges for all particles [5, 21–23]; the corresponding single-charge formulation of electrodynamics corresponds to a definite choice of the “dual” gauge.