Dirac matrix

Dirac matrix

[di′rak ′mā‚triks]

(quantum mechanics)

Any one of four matrices, designated γ_μ(μ = 1, 2, 3, 4), each having four rows and four columns and satisfying γ_μγ_v+ γ_vγ_μ= δ_{μ v} , where δ_{μ v} is the Kronecker delta function, which matrices operate on the four-component wave function in the Dirac equation. Also known as gamma matrix.

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific & Technical Terms, 6E, Copyright © 2003 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.