Can the Relativistic Velocity Equation Keep Velocities Below the Speed of Light?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relativistic velocity equation, specifically the formula u'=(u+v)/(1+(uv/c^2)), which describes how velocities transform between two inertial frames. Participants confirm that if 0 PREREQUISITES

  • Understanding of special relativity concepts
  • Familiarity with the relativistic law of composition of velocities
  • Basic algebra and manipulation of inequalities
  • Knowledge of the speed of light as a universal constant (c)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the relativistic velocity addition formula
  • Explore examples of velocity transformations in special relativity
  • Learn about the implications of velocities approaching the speed of light
  • Investigate the concept of Lorentz transformations in detail
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Students of physics, particularly those studying special relativity, educators teaching advanced mechanics, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of relativistic physics.

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Homework Statement



From the relativistic law of composition of velocities one deduces that if a particle has velocity ui in O, then in a system O' moving at -vi relative to O, its velocity will be u'i where:

u'=(u+v)/(1+(uv/c^2))

Show, mathematically, that if 0<u<c and 0<v<c, then 0<u'<c also.

Homework Equations



Hint: Think of above equation as (u'/c)=[((u/c)+(v/c))/(1+(uv/c^2))]

The Attempt at a Solution



Well, I've looked at it, and figured that if 0<u<c, then 0<(u/c)<1 and the same with v and u'. However, when putting this into the form of the 'hint' equation, you'd get u'/c=(0<2)/(1<2) which would give 0<u'<2, which isn't right. I can't see where it's going wrong though. Any help?
 
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