University Level Relativity: Relatavistic Decau Homework

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In summary, the conversation discusses a university level question on relativity involving calculations of momentum and energy before and after a collision. The attempted solution involves using gamma and velocity values, but the final answer is found to be different from the given answer. The individual is seeking clarification on how the given answer was obtained.
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wooburger
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Homework Statement


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University level question on relativity


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



momentum before is gamma*pionmass*0.93c
momentum after is gamma(u)*mass(u)*velocity(u) - E/c where E=pc which is the energy of massless particles

energy before is gamma*pionmass*c*c
energy after is gamma*mass(u)*c*c + pc

just wondering if what I've done above is correct as I've tried to do it that way and i get a really ridiculous answer. Any help is appreciated
 
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  • #3
the answer is (masspion)^2 + (mass(u)^2)/ 2(masspion).. anyone know how they got to that, its 110 MeV, after some extreme calculation i got 103.75 MeV but i don't know how they got it simply by doing a simple calculation as above
 

1. What is the theory of relativity?

The theory of relativity is a scientific theory developed by Albert Einstein in the early 20th century. It states that the laws of physics are the same for all observers in uniform motion, and that the speed of light in a vacuum is constant regardless of the observer's frame of reference. This theory has two main components: special relativity, which deals with objects moving at constant speeds, and general relativity, which takes into account acceleration and gravity.

2. What is the difference between special relativity and general relativity?

Special relativity deals with objects moving at constant speeds, while general relativity takes into account acceleration and gravity. Special relativity also deals with phenomena at very high speeds, while general relativity deals with the effects of massive objects on the fabric of space-time.

3. How does the theory of relativity impact our understanding of the universe?

The theory of relativity has greatly impacted our understanding of the universe. It has provided us with a better understanding of the nature of space and time, and has led to the development of technologies such as GPS and nuclear energy. It has also helped us understand the behavior of objects at high speeds and in strong gravitational fields, which has been crucial in understanding the structure and evolution of the universe.

4. What is the concept of time dilation in relativity?

Time dilation is a phenomenon predicted by the theory of relativity where time moves slower for objects moving at high speeds or in strong gravitational fields. This means that time can pass at different rates for different observers, depending on their relative speeds and positions. This has been confirmed through experiments and has important implications for space travel and our understanding of time.

5. How is the theory of relativity applied in practical situations?

The theory of relativity has many practical applications, such as in GPS technology, where it is used to accurately calculate the location of objects on Earth. It is also used in nuclear energy, where the famous equation E=mc² is used to calculate the amount of energy released in nuclear reactions. Relativity also plays a role in the development of new technologies and our understanding of the universe.

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