http://arxiv.org/abs/1604.01719
The Ostrogradsky theorem implies that higher derivative terms of a single mechanical variable are either trivial or lead to additional, ghost-like degrees of freedom. In this letter we systematically investigate how the introduction of additional variables can remedy this situation. Employing a Lagrangian analysis, we identify conditions on the Lagrangian to ensure the existence of primary and secondary constraints that together remove the unstable Ostrogradsky ghosts. We also show the implications of these conditions for the structure of the equations of motion. We discuss applications to analogous higher-derivative field theories such as multi-Galileons and beyond Horndeski.
R. Klein and D. Roest
Thu, 7 Apr 16
44/51
Comments: 7 pages
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