Velocities of objects moving towards and away from each other

[ilikescience94]

Am I correct in my understanding that two objects moving away from each other movee away from each other at the speed designated by this equation: (V1+V2)/((1+((V1*VS)/(C^2)))) I was wondering if this same equation was used to determine the velocity at which two objects move towards each other as well. It seems like it would be the same, but then again, I would think that the combined velocity of 2 objects would just be V1+V2, so I'm just being careful.

 

[phinds]

Yes, you are correct with the equation.

Given that nothing can exceed the speed of light it is not possible for the combined velocity of two objects to be V1 + V2

 

[ilikescience94]

Alright sweet, thanks

 

[Naty1]

background here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Velocity-addition_formula

You can find Einstein's own derivation online in free versions of his book
'Relativity, The special and the general theory' .

 

[sardar]

Your understanding is correct. The equation (V1+V2)/((1+((V1*VS)/(C^2)))) can be used to determine the velocity at which two objects move away from each other. This equation takes into account the effects of special relativity, as it includes the speed of light (C) and the relative velocities of the two objects (V1 and V2).

The same equation can also be used to determine the velocity at which two objects move towards each other. This is because the equation takes into account the relative velocities of the two objects, so it can be applied in both directions.

You are correct in thinking that the combined velocity of two objects would just be V1+V2. This is the classical Newtonian approach, which does not take into account the effects of special relativity. However, at high speeds approaching the speed of light, the classical approach is no longer accurate and the equation mentioned above must be used.

Overall, it is important to consider the effects of special relativity when calculating velocities of objects moving towards or away from each other, as it can significantly impact the results.