Reduced-order Bopp-Podolsky model on the null-plane

Abstract

We consider the null-plane dynamics for a reduced-order version of the higher-derivatives Bopp-Podolsky generalized electrodynamics model. By introducing an auxiliary vector field, we achieve a simpler equivalent version with lower derivatives. The massive and massless modes for the Podolsky gauge field get split into two sectors. We describe the model in terms of light-front coordinates and, by choosing x+$$x^+$$ as a natural evolution parameter, proceed to its null-plane dynamics analysis obtaining the whole constraints structure and canonical field equations. After a convenient constraints redefinition, we calculate the Dirac brackets corresponding to the second-class sector. Gauge invariance is preserved and, after elimination of second-class constraints, we obtain a consistent Abelian first-class theory for the reduced-order Bopp-Podolsky model.