O Physics: K Meson Decay and Velocity Calculation

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the speed of a K meson with a total energy of 890 MeV before it decays into two π mesons. Participants question whether the π mesons move together after the decay and the implications of their motion on conservation laws. The rest masses of the K meson and π mesons are necessary for solving the problem, particularly regarding energy and momentum conservation. Clarification is sought on whether the π mesons can maintain the same speed as the K meson while still adhering to conservation principles. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for accurately determining the velocities and energies of the resulting particles in the laboratory frame.
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Homework Statement



A K meson has a total energy of 890 MeV in a laboratory where it decays along
its line of flight into two π mesons. At what speed is the K meson traveling in the
laboratory frame prior to the decay? What are the velocities and energies of the π
mesons in the laboratory frame?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Would the two pi mesons be moving together? If so, I know how to solve the problem...

If they would be - why do they? If not, why not?
Thanks
 
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bon said:

Homework Statement



A K meson has a total energy of 890 MeV in a laboratory where it decays along
its line of flight into two π mesons. At what speed is the K meson traveling in the
laboratory frame prior to the decay? What are the velocities and energies of the π
mesons in the laboratory frame?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Would the two pi mesons be moving together? If so, I know how to solve the problem...

If they would be - why do they? If not, why not?
Thanks
What are the rest masses of the K meson and \pi mesons? You will need that information to solve this problem.

What is conserved here? Can it be conserved if the \pi mesons are moving at the same speed as the K meson was? If not, can they change speed and still be moving together ?

AM
 
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