Mass & Velocity: Gaining Momentum with Speed

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between mass, velocity, and momentum, particularly in the context of classical and relativistic physics. Participants explore how momentum is defined and whether mass changes with velocity, addressing both theoretical and conceptual aspects.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why a particle gains mass or momentum as its velocity increases, seeking clarification on the underlying mechanisms.
  • Another participant asserts that a particle does not gain mass but gains momentum, emphasizing that momentum is defined as mass times velocity in classical physics.
  • A later reply introduces the concept of relativistic mass, suggesting that changes in mass with speed are related to length contraction and time dilation in spacetime.
  • Another participant reiterates that momentum is directly proportional to mass and velocity, reinforcing the idea that mass remains constant while velocity may vary.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the concept of mass change with velocity. While some argue that mass does not change, others reference relativistic effects, indicating that multiple competing views remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the definitions of mass and momentum, as well as the assumptions underlying relativistic physics. The relationship between these concepts is not fully resolved, and participants rely on different interpretations.

Saado
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Why does a particle gain mass/momentum as its velocity increases?

How does this happen?
 
Last edited:
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Ignore the previous reply, it was wrong and crackpottery and got deleted accordingly.

It does not gain mass. It gains momentum as momentum is defined as a velocity-dependent quantity (in classical physics, just mass*velocity).
 
Ahhh thanks
 
Saado said:
Why does a particle gain mass/momentum as its velocity increases?

How does this happen?
You must be referring to relativistic mass. The change in mass with speed is due to the combination of length contraction and time dilation, i.e. due to the properties of spacetime.
 
Momentum is directly proportional to mass of object as well as the velocity,

And that's why mass doesn't change but the velocity in your case may be constant or relative!

Thats actually the definition of momentum too.

As mfb said it doesn't gain mass but momentum.
 

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