How do you verify that v/c=pc/E?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on verifying the equation v/c = pc/E, specifically in the context of free particles. Key equations mentioned include p = γm₀v and E = γm₀c², where γ is the Lorentz factor. The conversation highlights that the equation is trivial if expressions for momentum (p) and energy (E) are already known. Additionally, it notes that the equation does not apply to particles in potential fields, where the relationship changes to v/c = pc/K, with K representing kinetic energy.

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  • Understanding of relativistic momentum (p = γm₀v)
  • Familiarity with energy-mass equivalence (E = γm₀c²)
  • Knowledge of Hamilton's equations
  • Concept of potential energy in physics
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How do you verify that v/c=pc/E?
 
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HINT:

p=\gamma m_{0} v

E=\gamma m_{0} c^{2}

Daniel.
 
Your question is too short, and BTW only applies to free particles. I don't know what you are starting with. Or even whether you mean experimental verification. As Dextrecioby points out, if you already know expressions for p and E, the result is trivial. Another possible starting point is that you know only
E^2=p^2c^2-m_0^2c^4
and Hamilton's equations. Then use H=E(p,x), and
v=dx/dt=\partial H/\partial p
or the vector generalization.
 
@@a
why does it only apply to free particles?
 
If a particle is in a potential field \Phi(x,y,z), then
(E-\Phi)^2=p^2c^2-m_0^2c^4
so v/c is not equal to pc/E. One can define "kinetic energy" as K=E-\Phi(x,y,z), then v/c=pc/K. That's just one example of non-free.
 
i see... thank you very much!
 

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