"Common" relativistic variables.

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the confusion regarding the term "common" in a problem involving two particles moving relative to each other. The problem requires calculating the common total energy, momentum, and total rest mass of a 3.0 MeV photon and an electron traveling at 0.995c in opposite directions. Participants are analyzing fundamental relativistic equations to understand how to approach the problem. The term "common" is interpreted as referring to the combined properties of the particles rather than their individual characteristics. Understanding this distinction is crucial for solving the problem accurately.
GravitonDiet
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So the thing I have issues with in this problem is that it's about 2 particles traveling relative to each other. Been going though the basics of relativity, relativistic lengths, times, kinetic energy, work and force. But this problem states two particles and I'm not sure how to approach it. The word "common" is where I get confused.

1. Homework Statement

A 3.0 MeV photon is moving in positive x-direction and an electron in the opposite direction at a velocity of 0.995c. Calculate their common total energy, momentum and total rest mass.

Homework Equations


Fundamental relativistic equations.
 
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I suspect the word "common" is added only to separate from "individual", i.e., you are asked to find the sum of the particle energies.
 
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