Pseudovector - The Right-hand Rule

The Right-hand Rule

Above, pseudovectors have been discussed using active transformations. An alternate approach, more along the lines of passive transformations, is to keep the universe fixed, but switch "right-hand rule" with "left-hand rule" and vice-versa everywhere in physics, in particular in the definition of the cross product. Any polar vector (e.g., a translation vector) would be unchanged, but pseudovectors (e.g., the magnetic field vector at a point) would switch signs. Nevertheless, there would be no physical consequences, apart from in the parity-violating phenomena such as certain radioactive decays.

Read more about this topic:  Pseudovector

Famous quotes containing the word rule:

    When they are preparing for war, those who rule by force speak most copiously about peace until they have completed the mobilization process.
    Stefan Zweig (18811942)