Projectile Motion in Relativity: Lorentz Vector Subtraction

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the angle and speed of a projectile fired from a cannon at 0.4c, observed by an observer moving at 0.1c along the X-axis. The participant seeks confirmation on using Lorentz vector subtraction, specifically referencing the method outlined on the relativity calculator website. The solution involves applying relativistic velocity addition principles to determine the observed angle and speed of the projectile.

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Homework Statement



A projectile is fired from a canon at a velocity of 0.4c at an elevation angle of 30° to the X-axis. An observor is moving at a velocity of 0.1c relative to the canon along the X direction.
(a) At what angle does the observor measure the projectile to be fired?
(b) What is the projectile’s speed relative to the observor?




Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Am I correct in thinking that I use the same method of Lorentz vector subtraction as shown near the bottom of the linked-to webpage below?

http://www.relativitycalculator.com/addition_relativistic_velocities.shtml

i.e. the section entitled, "What, therefore, would r & θ appear to be to an observor in relatively moving S'?"

Example 1

Or does anyone suggest another (simpler?) method?

Thank you.
 
Last edited:
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Sorry, hadn't added in the linked-to webpage, which I've just done!
 

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