Derivation of relativity equation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the relativity equation E² - (pc)² = (mc²)² by combining equations 4.4 and 4.5. The equations provided are p = mu / (sqrt(1 - (u²/c²))) and E = mc² / (sqrt(1 - (u²/c²))). The user initially attempts to equate the two equations but is advised to instead solve for E² and (pc)² separately before subtracting them to arrive at the correct form of the equation. This method clarifies the derivation process and corrects the user's approach.

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Homework Statement


Combine Eqs. 4.4 and 4.5 to derive Eq. 4.22


Homework Equations


4.4: p= m u/ (sqrt(1-(u2/c2)))
4.5: E= m c2/ (sqrt(1-(u2/c2)))
4.22: E2-(pc)2= (mc2)2


The Attempt at a Solution


(sqrt(1-(u2/c2))) = mu/p

(sqrt(1-(u2/c2))) = mc2/E

1 - u2/c2 = m2u2/p2

1 - u2/c2 = m2c4/E2

u2/c2=1-m2u2/p2

u2/c2=1-m2c4/E2

Now combining:

1 - m2u2/p2 =
1 -m2c4/E2

m2u2E2=m2c4p4

Clearly, this is not Eq. 4.22 above. So, I either made a small mistake somewhere or missed a larger concept.

Thank you.
 
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Just a small mistake. You're not trying to solve these equations, so equating them isn't quite the right direction.

You're trying to show that [tex]E^2 - (pc)^2 = (mc^2)^2[/tex]
Use your two other equations to solve for E^2, and (pc)^2; then subtract them. The right answer will pop out.
 

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