Novel generalization of three-dimensional Yang-Mills theory

A class of new non-Abelian gauge theories for vector fields on three manifolds is presented. The theories describe a generalization of three-dimensional Yang-Mills theory featuring a novel nonlinear gauge symmetry and field equations for Lie-algebra-valued Vector potential fields. The nonlinear form of the gauge symmetry and held equations relies on the Vector cross-product and vector curl operator available only in three dimensions, and makes use of an auxiliary Lie bracket together with the Lie bracket used in Yang-Mills theory. A gauge covariant formulation of the new theories is given which utilizes the covariant derivative and curvature from the geometrical formulation of Yang-Mills theory. Further features of the new theories are discussed. (C) 1997 American Institute of Physics.