Are Special Relativity variables transformable

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the potential for substituting variables in the equations related to energy, specifically examining the relationship between the equations E=hλ and E=mc². Participants explore whether such substitutions are mathematically valid and how they relate to the principles of Special Relativity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that variables in the equations E=hλ and E=mc² could be substituted, proposing forms like E=hm or E=λc².
  • Another participant agrees that substitution is possible in principle but argues that the proposed substitutions are not sound.
  • A third participant clarifies that while substitution is possible, the only common variable between the two equations is E, leading to the equation hλ=mc², which they assert is valid.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the validity of the proposed substitutions, with some arguing against them while others acknowledge the possibility of substitution under certain conditions.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the dependence on the definitions of the variables and the mathematical relationships between the equations, which remain unresolved.

dbmorpher
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In the Equation
E=hλ
Could the variables be subsituted for other similar energy problems like
E=mc2?
Would then the energy of something be written as
E=hm
or
E=λc2?
 
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Well, in principle yes, because these are laws of mathematics, not Special Relativity. But neither of the substitutions you have described are sound.
 
dbmorpher said:
In the Equation
E=hλ
Could the variables be subsituted for other similar energy problems like
E=mc2?
Would then the energy of something be written as
E=hm
or
E=λc2?
You can do substitution, but what you are doing is not substitution.

The only common variable between those two equations is E, so if you were to substitute one into the other you would get hλ=mc^2, which is valid.
 
Cool, thanks both of you
 

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