Path integral of the relativistic point particle in Minkowski space

Abstract

In this article, we analyze the fundamental global and local symmetries involved in the action for the free relativistic point particle in Minkowski space. Moreover, we identify a hidden local symmetry, whose explicit consideration and factorization utilizing of a Fujikawa prescription leads to the construction of relativistic two-point correlation functions that satisfy the Chapman-Kolmogorov identity. By means of a detailed topological analysis, we find three different relativistic correlation functions (orthochronous, spacelike, and Feynman) which are obtained from the exclusive integration of paths within different sectors in Minkowski space. Finally, the connection of this approach to the Feynman checkerboard construction is explored.