Exact Diffeomorphism in Warped Space

Abstract: In this paper, we study the manifestation of exact diffeomorphism in warped extra dimension, with an emphasis on the Randall-Sundrum model. Utilizing the covariant form of variation $\delta g_{MN} = \nabla_M \xi_N + \nabla_N \xi_M$, we derive the nonlinear transformation rules for the metric fields in the unitary gauge. As an off-shell symmetry, diffeomorphism governs the interaction structure by connecting the neighboring orders of bulk action expansions. Our analysis unveils that an on-shell diffeomorphism exists prior to radion stabilization, but is broken by the Goldberger-Wise mechanism. This on-shell symmetry enforces a mass-related equation $F'- A' G =0$ to eliminate one degree of freedom, while ensuring the 5D action invariant up to a surface term. Therefore, we conjecture that the on-shell diffeomorphism actually protects the radion field from acquiring mass.