Algebra of Currents

Abstract

This is a review paper on the most important results obtained from the Algebra of Currents introduced by Gell‐Mann. It includes a detailed discussion on the derivation of sum rules (Adler‐Weisberger, Cabibbo‐Radicati, etc.), either with the p → ∞ method and with the covariant method. Theorems for the emission of zero energy pions are discussed, and applied to leptonic and non leptonic decays of K mesons, and to the 3π decay of the η meson. More recent developments of current algebra like the gauge fields current algebra, the Weinberg sum rules, and the applications of the Bjorken's method to weak and e.m. interactions are also discussed.

The Charm of Theoretical Physics (1958–1993)

“…I spent the summer '68 in Boulder, Colorado, at the Boulder Summer School, finishing a review paper written in collaboration with Giuliano about the algebra of currents [Maiani & Preparata, 1969]. In the same school there were Carlo Bernardini and his wife Silvia so I had the opportunity of knowing them a little better.…”