Lorentz Invariance & Finding Lambda Expression

In summary, the conversation discusses finding a Lorentz invariant expression for a quantity \lambda in a system with two four vectors v and w, where v^{2} = m^{2} > 0, w^{2} > m^{2}, and w' = (w_{0}', \vec{0}) and v' = (v_{0}', \vec{v} \, '), and the additional consideration of \lambda = \vert \vec{v}' \vert \, \sqrt{ w_{0}'^{2} - m^{2}}. A possible solution is t = \sqrt{\dfrac{(vw)^{2} - v^{2} w^{2}}{v^{2}}
  • #1
parton
83
1

Homework Statement



I have two four vectors v and w with [tex] v^{2} = m^{2} > 0, v_{0} > 0 [/tex] and [tex] w^{2} > m^{2}, w_{0} > 0 [/tex]. Now we consider a system with
[tex] w' = (w_{0}', \vec{0}) [/tex] and [tex] v' = (v_{0}', \vec{v} \, ') [/tex] and in addition we consider the quantity [tex] \lambda = \vert \vec{v}' \vert \, \sqrt{ w_{0}'^{2} - m^{2}} [/tex]. Now I should find a Lorentz invariant expression of [tex] \lambda [/tex] only using the invariants [tex]v^{2}, w^{2}, vw[/tex].

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I think I've found a solution: [tex] t = \sqrt{\dfrac{(vw)^{2} - v^{2} w^{2}}{v^{2}} (v^{2} - w^{2})} [/tex].
But I'm not really sure if this "solution" is really Lorentz invariant (my problem is the square root). Could anyone confirm this solution or is there any mistake?
 
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  • #2
The square root is OK as long as what you're taking the root of is positive. I didn't check your math, but the answer should look something like this.
 

What is Lorentz Invariance?

Lorentz Invariance is a fundamental principle in physics that states that the laws of physics should remain the same for all observers in uniform motion.

Why is Lorentz Invariance important?

Lorentz Invariance is important because it is a key component of the Special Theory of Relativity, which has been extensively tested and is considered to be a cornerstone of modern physics.

How does Lorentz Invariance relate to Einstein's theory of relativity?

Einstein's theory of relativity is based on the principle of Lorentz Invariance. It is the idea that the laws of physics are the same for all observers in uniform motion, regardless of their relative velocities.

What is the lambda expression in Lorentz Invariance?

The lambda expression in Lorentz Invariance is a mathematical representation of the relationship between space and time in the Special Theory of Relativity. It is used to calculate how different observers will measure the same events in space and time.

How can I use Lorentz Invariance in my research or experiments?

Lorentz Invariance can be used in a variety of ways in scientific research and experiments, particularly in the fields of particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology. It can help in understanding the behavior of particles at high speeds and in predicting the behavior of objects in extreme environments such as black holes.

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