  In the context of quantum gases, we obtain a many-body Hamiltonian for
spin-3/2 atoms with general multipole (spin, quadrupole, and octupole) exchange
interaction by employing the apparatus of irreducible spherical tensor
operators. This Hamiltonian implies the finite-range interaction, whereas, for
zero-range (contact) potentials parameterized by the $s$-wave scattering
length, the multipole exchange interaction becomes irrelevant. Following the
reduced description method for quantum systems, we derive the quantum kinetic
equation for spin-3/2 atoms in a magnetic field and apply it to examine the
high-frequency oscillations known as zero sound.
