Energy loss in synchrotron accelerators

[wakko101]

Homework Statement

For the LEP, we are given that it is a perfectly circular accelerator with circumference 25 km and that the energy of each beam is 50 GeV. Calculate the energy lost in GeV/s by a single electron on each turn.

Homework Equations

The loss is given by (4pi/3)*(e^2)*(gamma^4)/radius, and gamma is the ratio of beam energy to the rest mass of the electron.

The Attempt at a Solution

First of all, I'm not really sure what to do about that e^2...if we are working in gaussian units, does this equal 1? Secondly, if I simply substitute 50 Gev and .501 MeV/c^2 for energy and mass in gamma, and then take it to the fourth power, I get a huge number that couldn't possibly be the energy loss.

Basically, I'm confused by what this equation is really saying, so any clarification would be appreciated.

Cheers,
W. =)

 

[nickjer]

You might find this page useful http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/HBASE/Particles/synchrotron.html"