Help with derivation of two-body relativistic cross section

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Homework Help Overview

The original poster attempts to derive the two-body relativistic cross section, referencing a specific document. The problem involves understanding the relationship between energy and momentum in a relativistic context, particularly focusing on the Mandelstam variable and its implications for the cross section.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the derivation steps, particularly the differentiation of energy with respect to momentum. Questions are raised about specific relationships, such as why d√s/dp_f equals v_f, and the assumptions made in the original poster's approach.

Discussion Status

Some participants provide guidance on differentiating relevant equations to clarify the relationships involved. There is an acknowledgment of potential misunderstandings in the original poster's assumptions regarding the derivatives of velocities with respect to momentum.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of deriving a specific form of the cross section and are referencing a particular document for context. There is an emphasis on understanding the relativistic energy-momentum relationship and its implications for the cross section derivation.

charlesmartin14
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Homework Statement


I am trying to derive the 2 body cross section, as given in
https://web2.ph.utexas.edu/~schwitte/PHY362L/QMnote.pdf

dσ/dΩ

Homework Equations



I am stuck on

d√s/dp=v

where

√s=(Ea+Eb)=E

The Attempt at a Solution



p=Ev (relativisitic energy-momentum relationship)
√s=E

E=Ec+Ed=p/vc + p/vd

pc = pd = pf

d√s/dp = d(Ec+Ed)/dp = d(p/vc + p/vc)/dp=(1/vc + 1/vd)=(vc+vd)/(vc*vd)=vf/vc*vd

.
 
Last edited:
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Did you have a specific question?
 
I am trying to derive the 2+2 body relativisitic cross section, as given in
https://web2.ph.utexas.edu/~schwitte/PHY362L/QMnote.pdf

a+b -> c+d

I want the form of the cross section

dσ/dΩ ~ 1/((v_i)(v_f))

I am stuck on step (13)-(14)
and I don't understand why d√s/dp_f=v_f

Here, s is the mandelstam variable √s=(Ec+Ed)=(Ea+Eb)
and p_f is the (amplitude) of the final (I assume 3 vector ) momentum
 
##\vec{p}_\text{f}## is the three-momentum of particle C.

Try differentiating ##-m_c^2 = p_c^2-E_c^2## to calculate ##dE_c/dp_c##. I think the problem with your attempt is that you're assuming ##dv_c/dp_c = 0## and ##dv_d/dp_c = 0##.
 
vela said:
##\vec{p}_\text{f}## is the three-momentum of particle C.

Try differentiating ##-m_c^2 = p_c^2-E_c^2## to calculate ##dE_c/dp_c##. I think the problem with your attempt is that you're assuming ##dv_c/dp_c = 0## and ##dv_d/dp_c = 0##.
 
Thanks ! That makes perfect sense. this is a great forum
 

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