Faster velocity than the speed of light?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relativistic behavior of two particles, p1 and p2, each traveling at 0.6c relative to a stationary observer at point A. After one year, the distance between p1 and p2 appears to be 1.2 lightyears from A's perspective, leading to confusion about whether their relative speed exceeds the speed of light. However, using the Lorentz transformation and the velocity addition formula, it is established that no observer will measure either particle moving faster than light, although the separation distance can increase at a rate greater than c in certain frames of reference.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Special Relativity principles
  • Familiarity with Lorentz transformations
  • Knowledge of the velocity addition formula in relativistic contexts
  • Basic concepts of frame of reference in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Lorentz transformation in detail
  • Learn about the velocity addition formula and its applications
  • Explore the concept of frame of reference in Special Relativity
  • Investigate the implications of metric expansion in cosmology
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying Special Relativity, mathematicians interested in the implications of relativistic physics, and anyone seeking to understand the nuances of speed and distance in relativistic contexts.

  • #31
phinds said:
RELATIVE TO WHAT ?
haha I was waiting for that!
 

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