Geometric interpretation for the Wess-Zumino terms - art. no. 125018

We propose a geometric interpretation for the Wess-Zumino (WZ) constraint c onverting method. This study is done in the context of nonlinearly constrai ned systems, formulated as gauge theories. A deep unifying concept is revea led connecting the invariant and the noninvariant models disclosing a uniqu e relationship between the WZ gauge orbits with the nonlinear surfaces. Suc h structures unveil the physical and geometrical meaning of the WZ terms in turning second-class constraints into gauge generators quantifies. A simpl e and practical mapping between gauge and nongauge theories is found, provi ding a new interpretation for the nonlinear constraint as the natural gauge fixing surface for the gauge theories. [S0556-2821(99)00910-8].