Mass and the Speed of Light: Equations and Measurements

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relativistic mass increase as an object approaches the speed of light, specifically referencing the equation m = m₀ / √(1 - v² / c²). This equation illustrates that as velocity (v) approaches the speed of light (c), the relativistic mass (m) increases significantly. Participants also explore the implications of measuring initial mass in the context of an expanding universe, questioning whether initial mass is relative to the observer's frame of reference.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Einstein's Theory of Relativity
  • Familiarity with the concepts of mass and velocity
  • Knowledge of the equation for relativistic mass
  • Basic principles of frame of reference in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation of the relativistic mass equation
  • Explore the implications of mass-energy equivalence in relativity
  • Learn about measuring mass in non-inertial frames
  • Investigate the effects of acceleration on mass in an expanding universe
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of relativity, and anyone interested in the relationship between mass and velocity in the context of modern physics.

ThoughtProces
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I was wondering if there is and what is the equations that show that as an object accelerates towards the speed of light its mass increase to infinite.
 
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You're probably thinking of this equation:

m = \frac {m_0} {\sqrt{1 - v^2 / c^2}}
 
i do believe this is the equation do you have a derivation of where it comes from or could you point me to a site for which it has the derivation.

thanks
 
thanks for the link, it should prove to be a good read
 
I guess another question is how do we measure the initial mass of an object if we are all traveling at a changing velocity due to the constant acceleration of an expanding universe. Or is the initial mass relative to the expanding universe in its own frame of reference?
 

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