Force to keep photon in circular motion

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the force required to keep a proton in circular motion with a radius of 1.0 km while possessing an energy of 2.5 × 10-10 J. The participant initially calculated the velocity using relativistic energy equations, arriving at a speed of 0.798c and a force of 9.57 × 10-14 N. However, the correct force is 1.6 × 10-13 N, indicating a miscalculation in the velocity due to the need for using relativistic mass. The participant concludes that relativistic effects must be considered for speeds approaching the speed of light.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of relativistic physics, particularly the concept of relativistic mass.
  • Familiarity with the equations of motion in circular dynamics, specifically f = mv2/R.
  • Knowledge of energy-mass equivalence as described by E = mc2.
  • Basic principles of wave-particle duality, including the relationship between energy and frequency (E = hf).
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of relativistic mass on particle dynamics at high velocities.
  • Learn about the Lorentz factor (γ) and its role in relativistic calculations.
  • Explore advanced topics in circular motion involving relativistic particles.
  • Investigate the limitations of classical mechanics when applied to high-energy particles.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in the dynamics of particles at relativistic speeds, particularly in the context of circular motion and energy calculations.

quietrain
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Homework Statement


A proton has an energy of 2.5 × 10−10 J. What force is needed to keep it going in
a circle having a 1.0 km radius

The Attempt at a Solution



so i tried to find v first.

total energy E = 2.5 x 10-10 J =\gamma mc2

so m = photon mass = 1.67 x 10-27

so i found \gamma = 1.66
and v = 0.798c

so when i sub into f = mv2/R , i get f = 9.57 x 10-14

but the answer is 1.6 x 10-13

which means that the photon speed is roughly 0.9++ c

so anyone knows what's wrong?

btw why can't i use E= hf, get f, convert to T =1/f, then use circumference / T = v ?
i realize that v i get is faster than the speed of light. but which step is wrong in this attempt?

thanks!
 
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hmm.. i realize that i have to use relativistic mass in this case. to get the answer.

so basically anything that has speed comparable to c, we have to use relativistic mass?

so gamma was 1.66, so it means that as the photon moves with speed close to light, its mass increases? 1.66m ? so is this correct? speed increase = mass increase? from E = mc ^2btw, anyone knows what's wrong with my 2nd type of attempt in the first post?
 

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