Escape Velocity from Relativistic Sphere: Derivation & Intuition

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the derivation of escape velocity from a relativistic sphere, specifically addressing the misconception that escape velocity increases with relativistic mass. It is established that the escape velocity, as perceived by an observer moving with the object, remains constant and is equivalent to the escape velocity of the object at rest. The forum references an Insights article that clarifies the concept of relativistic mass and its implications on escape velocity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of relativistic physics concepts
  • Familiarity with escape velocity calculations
  • Knowledge of reference frames in physics
  • Basic principles of energy conservation in gravitational fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Read the Insights article on "What is Relativistic Mass and Why It Is Not Used Much"
  • Study the derivation of escape velocity in both classical and relativistic contexts
  • Explore the implications of reference frames on physical measurements
  • Investigate the energy requirements for objects to escape gravitational fields at relativistic speeds
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of relativity, and anyone interested in the principles of escape velocity and relativistic motion.

Dilema
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Can you please direct me to ref that shows the derivation of the escape velocity from a spherical object that moves in velocity v~c with respect to rest frame?

I suspect the escape velocity is increasing (intuitively since the mass increases).

Please comment and suggest alternatives.
 
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Dilema said:
I suspect the escape velocity is increasing (intuitively since the mass increases).
No, because relativistic mass doesn't work that way. We have an Insights article that you'll want to read: https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/what-is-relativistic-mass-and-why-it-is-not-used-much/

The escape velocity, as measured by an observer moving along with the object, is exactly what it would be if the object were at rest (as it is in fact at rest relative to that observer).
 
Also, a frame is just a point of view. You can't change how much energy is needed to escape Earth's gravity just by changing point of view. Otherwise you could have frames where the Voyager probes didn't have enough fuel to generate escape velocity, but leave the solar system anyway.
 

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