A group-theorist's perspective on symmetry groups in physics

Abstract

There are many Lie groups used in physics, including the Lorentz group of special relativity, the spin groups (relativistic and non-relativistic) and the gauge groups of quantum electrodynamics and the weak and strong nuclear forces. Various grand unified theories use larger Lie groups in different attempts to unify some of these groups into something more fundamental. There are also a number of finite symmetry groups that are related to the finite number of distinct elementary particle types. I offer a group-theorist's perspective on these groups, and suggest some ways in which a deeper use of group theory might in principle be useful. These suggestions include a number of options that seem not to be under active investigation at present. I leave open the question of whether they can be implemented in physical theories.