Consistent Trajectory for a non-zero rest mass particle?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around verifying the consistency of a trajectory defined by the equation dx/dt = cgt/√(1+g²t²) for a non-zero rest mass particle. The main concern is whether the velocity remains less than the speed of light (c) for all time (t). As t approaches infinity, the calculated velocity approaches c, which raises questions about the trajectory's consistency. Participants note a potential typo in the original post, leading to confusion about the limits involved. Ultimately, the trajectory appears inconsistent with the expectations set by relativistic physics.
DeldotB
Messages
117
Reaction score
8

Homework Statement


Good day all!
Quick question:
As part of a problem statement, I'm asked to verify if the trajectory: \frac{dx}{dt}=\frac{cgt}{\sqrt{1+g^2t^2}}
Is "consistent".

Homework Equations


None

The Attempt at a Solution



Im not sure what "consistent" means. Does it mean, \frac {dx}{dt} < c for all t? If that's so, I run into a problem because in the limit as t approaches infinity, the velocity = the speed of light (the limit goes to c). Am I approaching this the wrong way? (The trajectory is supposed to be "consistent")
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
You may want to check the limit of that expression for large ##t##.
 
PeroK: Not sure what you mean...
I get "c" as the limit. Maybe my work is wrong? Lim\, \, t\rightarrow \infty (\frac{cgt}{\sqrt{1+(9.8))^2t^2}})=cg(Lim\, \, t\rightarrow \infty (\frac{t}{\sqrt{1+(9.8))^2t^2}}))=cg(5/49)=c. So as t approaches infinity, the velocity approaches c.
 
That's correct, but inconsistent with the limit of ##cg## you gave in the original post!
 
Ah, I see. A miss-type. Well, nevertheless, this trajectory doesn't seem to be consistent even though my assignment is saying it should be.
 
Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'
In this question, I have a question. I am NOT trying to solve it, but it is just a conceptual question. Consider the point on the rod, which connects the string and the rod. My question: just before and after the collision, is ANGULAR momentum CONSERVED about this point? Lets call the point which connects the string and rod as P. Why am I asking this? : it is clear from the scenario that the point of concern, which connects the string and the rod, moves in a circular path due to the string...
Back
Top