Deformations of vector-scalar models

Abstract

Abelian vector fields non-minimally coupled to uncharged scalar fields arise in many contexts. We investigate here through algebraic methods their consistent deformations ("gaugings"), i.e., the deformations that preserve the number (but not necessarily the form or the algebra) of the gauge symmetries. Infinitesimal consistent deformations are given by the BRST cohomology classes at ghost number zero. We parametrize explicitly these classes in terms of various types of global symmetries and corresponding Noether currents through the characteristic cohomology related to antifields and equations of motion. The analysis applies to all ghost numbers and not just ghost number zero. We also provide a systematic discussion of the linear and quadratic constraints on these parameters that follow from higher-order consistency. Our work is relevant to the gaugings of extended supergravities.

v2: references added, typos corrected, minor changes for clarity

References in corpus (8)

• Lectures on Gauged Supergravity and Flux Compactifications
• The maximal D=4 supergravities
• Gauged Supergravities
• Symplectic Deformations of Gauged Maximal Supergravity
• Dyons with potentials: duality and black hole thermodynamics
• A note on local BRST cohomology of Yang-Mills type theories with free abelian factors
• Generalized Symmetries of Massless Free Fields on Minkowski Space
• A note on "gaugings" in four spacetime dimensions and electric-magnetic duality

Cited by in corpus (8)

• Consistent deformations of free massive field theories in the Stueckelberg formulation
• Stable interactions in higher derivative field theories of derived type
• A note on local BRST cohomology of Yang-Mills type theories with free abelian factors
• Uniqueness of $\mathcal{N}=2$ and $3$ pure supergravities in 4D
• Stability and consistent interactions in Podolsky's generalized electrodynamics
• Aspects of electric-magnetic dualities in maximal supergravity
• String Dualities and Gaugings of Supergravity
• Construction of consistent interactions in higher derivative Yang-Mills gauge theory with matter fields