The Effects of Relativistic Mass on High Speed Collisions

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of relativistic mass and the effects it has on the perception of size and movement. While an observer on Earth may see a person in a spaceship as appearing larger due to relativistic mass, the person in the spaceship would not see other objects as appearing larger. This is because, from their frame of reference, everything else is moving near the speed of light and thus experiences length contraction. Therefore, the person in the spaceship would not see the Earth and moon collide, as they would perceive them as maintaining their relative size.
  • #1
nemosum
36
0
Lets say that there is a man flying in a spaceship going fast enough that to another observer standing on the Earth he appears to be twice as big as normal due to relativistic mass (I might be wrong here, and relativistic mass doesn't make you look bigger). From the man's frame he would say he is at rest, and that everything else is going near c. Thus wouldn't everything else (planets, asteroids, sun, etc.) appear to be twice as big as normal to him? And if so, why wouldn't he see the Earth and moon collide because they're bigger? Especially with length contraction. This doesn't seem right, but I don't know what I'm not getting.

nemo
 
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  • #2
No, the increase in relativistic mass does not make things "look bigger". Moving objects contract along the direction of motion, and maintain the same size perpendicular to the direction of motion.
 
  • #3
OK, thanks.
 

Related to The Effects of Relativistic Mass on High Speed Collisions

What is a high speed collision?

A high speed collision is a type of collision that occurs when two or more objects collide at a high velocity, typically resulting in significant damage or destruction.

How do high speed collisions impact the objects involved?

High speed collisions can result in a variety of impacts on the objects involved, ranging from minor damage to complete destruction. The impact depends on factors such as the mass, velocity, and angle of collision.

What causes high speed collisions?

High speed collisions can be caused by various factors, including human error, mechanical failure, or natural forces such as gravity or wind. They can also occur in transportation accidents, sports, or during scientific experiments.

What are the potential consequences of a high speed collision?

The consequences of a high speed collision can include injuries or fatalities to living beings, damage to property or structures, and impacts on the environment. In some cases, high speed collisions can also lead to chain reactions and further collisions.

How can we prevent or mitigate the effects of high speed collisions?

There are various ways to prevent or reduce the effects of high speed collisions, such as implementing safety regulations, using protective equipment, and designing structures and vehicles with impact-resistant materials. Additionally, conducting research and studying the physics of collisions can help us better understand and prevent them in the future.

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