- #1
Helios
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As I'm seeing things, there are these choices for a definition of relativistic phase velocity u;
a) u = (mc^2)/ p
b) u = E / p
Now I like choice a) because it leads to a correct-looking index of refraction via n = c / u. It leads to a correct-looking solution to the ray equation. However, references give choice b). Who says b)? Why not a)?
a) u = (mc^2)/ p
b) u = E / p
Now I like choice a) because it leads to a correct-looking index of refraction via n = c / u. It leads to a correct-looking solution to the ray equation. However, references give choice b). Who says b)? Why not a)?