Three Dimensional Differential Calculus on the Quantum Group SU_q(2) and Minimal Gauge Theory

Three-dimensional bicovariant differential calculus on the quantum group SU_q(2) is constructed using the approach based on global covariance under the action of the stabilizing subgroup U(1). Explicit representations of possible q-deformed Lie algebras are obtained in terms of differential operators. The consistent gauge covariant differential calculus on SU_q(2) is uniquely defined. A non-standard Leibnitz rule is proposed for the exterior differential. The minimal gauge theory with SU_q(2) quantum group symmetry is considered.