What is the maximum speed attainable by particles and objects in space?

In summary, the conversation discusses the maximum speed that an electron and an atom can attain and how their speeds can be affected by a carrier. This is explained in the context of Special Relativity, where the velocity of an observer is asymptotic to the speed of light. It is also mentioned that velocity is not measured in the same way in Relativity as it is in Newtonian Physics.
  • #1
bodhi
23
0
please let me kno what is the max speed an electron can attain,and max speed an atom can be projected with.now if we consider max attainable speed of electron 0.8c,then if we have a carrier traveling 0.1c,then will electron achieve speed 0.9c. simply speaking can any particle attain speed more of its capability with the help of a carrier.
 
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  • #2
In SR, the velocity of an observer, if you plot it on a graph, will be asymptotic to the line representing the speed of light (d = t). You don't simply add two velocities or subtract like you would normally in euclidean n - space. Read this: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Velocity_addition and look at the SR velocity - addition formula. Disregarding equipment and practicality and whatnot, you could keep raising the electron's speed but it would always be asymptotic to that of v = c.
 
  • #3
bodhi said:
please let me kno what is the max speed an electron can attain,and max speed an atom can be projected with.now if we consider max attainable speed of electron 0.8c,then if we have a carrier traveling 0.1c,then will electron achieve speed 0.9c. simply speaking can any particle attain speed more of its capability with the help of a carrier.

c minus 10E-infinity lol
 
  • #4
If an object "A" does not have a force acting on it, it is at rest. If an object leaves our solar system with enough fuel to get close to a speed of light. The fuel runs out there is nothing to make the object go faster. The Speed of the object in relation to itself is zero but it sees the solar system it came from as having a velocity of close to the speed of light moving away from it. A body at rest is in a relation to itself.
If two objects are sent out from our solar system in opposite directions the solar system will see each of the objects as close to the speed of light. The objects will each see the solar system as moving away from them at say 99% the speed of light. The other object will be seen to be moving away at close to 99.5% the speed of light. Velocity is not measured in relativity as in Newtonian Physics. Bu they can be calculated from an object at rest.
 

1. How is maximum attainable speed defined?

Maximum attainable speed refers to the greatest speed that an object can reach, taking into account all physical limitations such as friction, air resistance, and energy source limitations.

2. What factors affect maximum attainable speed?

The factors that affect maximum attainable speed vary depending on the specific object or situation, but generally include things like air resistance, energy source limitations, surface friction, and the strength and capabilities of the object or organism itself.

3. Can an object exceed its maximum attainable speed?

No, an object cannot exceed its maximum attainable speed. Once it reaches its maximum attainable speed, it will either maintain that speed or decelerate due to physical limitations.

4. How does maximum attainable speed differ between objects?

The maximum attainable speed of an object is determined by its physical properties and external factors such as air resistance. Objects with different shapes, sizes, and capabilities will have different maximum attainable speeds.

5. Can maximum attainable speed be increased?

Yes, maximum attainable speed can be increased through improvements in design, technology, and physical capabilities. However, there will always be limitations based on physical factors such as air resistance and energy source limitations.

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