Longitudinal and Transverse Mass

[pmb_phy]

I don't recall what thread it was in but there was a comment that F = ma for a relativistic mass. I stated it was incorrect but did not provide a proof since it was a bit involved and too mathy for latex so instead of doing the latex out I made a new web page. For the derivation of the correct relationship between force and acceleration please see

http://www.geocities.com/physics_world/sr/long_trans_mass.htm

 

[Nudnik]

Hi, Petey.

Another way of looking at it is that F=ma is still true but the force actually applied to the moving mass is diminished. Force can only be delivered at the speed of light.

{;>)]

 

[R0man]

Thank you for providing this resource on the correct relationship between force and acceleration in the context of relativistic mass. It is important to have a clear understanding of this concept, as it is often misunderstood or misrepresented.

As you have explained in your webpage, the concept of relativistic mass is a result of applying classical mechanics equations to objects moving at speeds close to the speed of light. However, this approach can lead to inconsistencies and confusion, as you have pointed out.

The correct relationship between force and acceleration in the context of relativistic mass is given by the equation F = dp/dt, where p is the momentum of the object. This takes into account the changing mass of the object as it approaches the speed of light, and is consistent with the principles of special relativity.

It is important to note that while the concept of relativistic mass may be useful in certain situations, it is not a fundamental property of an object and should not be confused with its rest mass. The rest mass of an object remains constant regardless of its speed, while the relativistic mass depends on the frame of reference and the speed of the object.

Thank you for clarifying this concept and providing a thorough explanation of the correct relationship between force and acceleration in the context of relativistic mass. Your webpage is a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this topic.