Lorentz Invariance & Finding Lambda Expression

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving a Lorentz invariant expression for the quantity λ, defined as λ = |v'| √(w'² - m²), using the invariants v², w², and vw. The proposed solution is t = √((vw)² - v²w²)/(v²) (v² - w²), which the user questions for its Lorentz invariance due to the presence of a square root. The consensus is that the expression can be valid if the argument of the square root remains positive, ensuring the solution adheres to Lorentz invariance principles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of four-vectors in special relativity
  • Familiarity with Lorentz transformations
  • Knowledge of invariant quantities in relativistic physics
  • Basic calculus, particularly with square roots and inequalities
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Lorentz transformations and their implications on four-vectors
  • Explore the concept of invariant quantities in special relativity
  • Learn about the mathematical properties of square roots in physics
  • Investigate examples of Lorentz invariance in particle physics
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in theoretical physics, particularly those focusing on special relativity and particle dynamics, will benefit from this discussion.

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Homework Statement



I have two four vectors v and w with [tex]v^{2} = m^{2} > 0, v_{0} > 0[/tex] and [tex]w^{2} > m^{2}, w_{0} > 0[/tex]. Now we consider a system with
[tex]w' = (w_{0}', \vec{0})[/tex] and [tex]v' = (v_{0}', \vec{v} \, ')[/tex] and in addition we consider the quantity [tex]\lambda = \vert \vec{v}' \vert \, \sqrt{ w_{0}'^{2} - m^{2}}[/tex]. Now I should find a Lorentz invariant expression of [tex]\lambda[/tex] only using the invariants [tex]v^{2}, w^{2}, vw[/tex].

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I think I've found a solution: [tex]t = \sqrt{\dfrac{(vw)^{2} - v^{2} w^{2}}{v^{2}} (v^{2} - w^{2})}[/tex].
But I'm not really sure if this "solution" is really Lorentz invariant (my problem is the square root). Could anyone confirm this solution or is there any mistake?
 
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The square root is OK as long as what you're taking the root of is positive. I didn't check your math, but the answer should look something like this.
 

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