Understanding Change of Variables for KE Formula

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the derivation of the relativistic kinetic energy (KE) formula using the change of variables technique in calculus. The key equation presented is KE = ∫(0 to s) d(mv)/dt ds = ∫(0 to mv) v d(mv). The user seeks clarification on how to properly change the limits of integration when substituting variables, particularly in more complex scenarios beyond simple substitutions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between the variables involved in the integration process.

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  • Understanding of calculus, specifically integration techniques.
  • Familiarity with the concept of relativistic kinetic energy.
  • Knowledge of variable substitution in integrals.
  • Basic principles of physics related to motion and energy.
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  • Study the derivation of the relativistic kinetic energy formula in detail.
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Carolina Joe
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I asked this in another thread, but I think this forum might be a better place for it (not trying to spam the same question). When deriving the formula for relativistic kinetic energy, we start with
[tex] KE = \int_{0}^{s} \frac{d(mv)}{dt} ds = \int_{0}^{mv} v d(mv)[/tex]
So I figure that since v = ds/dt, then the right side must come from:
[tex] \int_{0}^{s} \frac{d(mv)}{dt} ds = \int_{0}^{mv} \frac{ds}{dt} d(mv)[/tex]
I'm having trouble seeing how to change the limits of integration in a situation like this. The 's' just became 'mv', but what if it had been something more complicated than just 's', like say, tan(s) or something. I'm trying to understand this process. If it had just been a normal substitution u = g(x), then I would understand how to change the limits, but this seems like something different.
 
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