Addition of velocities. relativity.

Thread starter night
Start date Apr 6, 2011
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Addition Relativity

In summary, the addition of velocities in relativity refers to the way in which velocities are combined or added together when observed from different reference frames. In classical relativity, velocities are simply added together, while in special relativity, the relativistic velocity addition formula is used, which takes into account the effects of time dilation and length contraction. This concept is important in understanding how the observed velocities of objects change in different reference frames and plays a crucial role in explaining the behavior of objects moving at speeds close to the speed of light. Additionally, the theory of relativity states that the addition of velocities can never result in a velocity greater than the speed of light. Lastly, the addition of velocities is related to the concept of time dilation, as the

Apr 6, 2011

night

Homework Statement

Show that the addition of velocities implies that:
a)if V < c in any inertial frame, then V < c in any other.
b)If V=c in one inertial frame, then V=c in the other.
c)If V>c in any inertial frame, then V>c in any other inertial frame.

Homework Equations

Vx'=(Vx-c)/(1-vVx/c^2)

The Attempt at a Solution

I did b) and I can't do a) and c)

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Apr 6, 2011

vela

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Show us what you tried for part a.

What is the concept of addition of velocities in relativity?

The concept of addition of velocities in relativity refers to the way in which velocities are combined or added together when observed from different reference frames. This is important in understanding the effects of relativity on the measurement of velocities.

How does the addition of velocities differ in classical and special relativity?

In classical relativity, velocities are simply added together. However, in special relativity, velocities are combined using the relativistic velocity addition formula, which takes into account the effects of time dilation and length contraction.

Why is the addition of velocities important in the theory of relativity?

The addition of velocities is important in the theory of relativity because it helps explain how the observed velocities of objects change when measured from different reference frames. It also plays a crucial role in understanding the behavior of objects moving at speeds close to the speed of light.

Can the addition of velocities ever result in a velocity greater than the speed of light?

No, according to the theory of relativity, the speed of light is the maximum speed at which any object can travel. Therefore, the addition of velocities can never result in a velocity greater than the speed of light.

How is the addition of velocities related to the concept of time dilation?

The addition of velocities is related to time dilation in that the relativistic velocity addition formula takes into account the difference in time measurements between two reference frames. This is known as time dilation and is a key concept in the theory of relativity.