Relativistic Momentum: Mass, Velocity & Lorentz Factor

In summary, the conversation discusses the relativistic momentum and whether the relativistic mass should be taken into account at high speeds. It is determined that the correct equation for relativistic momentum is p=mvγ, where Y is the Lorentz factor and m is the rest mass of the body. The use of the terms "relativistic mass" and "invariant rest mass" may vary among physicists.
  • #1
khil_phys
93
0
The relativistic momentum is given by p=mvγ, where Y is the Lorentz factor and m is the rest mass of the body.
My question is that if we are considering the momentum of the body at relativistic speeds, shouldn't we also consider the relativistic mass of the body?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
That's exactly what you are doing. It is just p = mr v, where [itex]m_\mathrm{r} = \gamma m_0[/itex] is the relativistic mass (in the direction of v).
 
  • #3
Compu is right. Although you will find other physicists prefer to write the invariant rest mass, [itex]m_0[/itex], and [itex]\mathbf{u}=\gamma (c,\vec{v})=\gamma\mathbf{v}[/itex]. You could find either of these in the various texts on relativity.
 

1. What is relativistic momentum?

Relativistic momentum is the measure of an object's motion when it is moving at a significant fraction of the speed of light. It takes into account an object's mass, velocity, and the Lorentz factor.

2. How is relativistic momentum calculated?

The formula for relativistic momentum is p = mv/√(1-v^2/c^2), where p is momentum, m is mass, v is velocity, and c is the speed of light. This formula takes into account the effects of special relativity at high speeds.

3. What is the difference between relativistic momentum and classical momentum?

Classical momentum, as described by Newton's laws of motion, only takes into account an object's mass and velocity. Relativistic momentum, on the other hand, also takes into account the Lorentz factor, which becomes significant at high speeds.

4. How does the Lorentz factor affect relativistic momentum?

The Lorentz factor, represented by the symbol γ, is a term in the relativistic momentum formula that is used to adjust for the effects of special relativity at high speeds. As an object's velocity approaches the speed of light, the Lorentz factor increases and has a greater impact on the object's momentum.

5. What are some real-world applications of relativistic momentum?

Relativistic momentum is an important concept in fields such as particle physics and astrophysics, where objects can reach extremely high speeds. It is also relevant in space travel and the design of high-speed transportation systems. Additionally, understanding relativistic momentum is crucial for accurate calculations in GPS technology.

Similar threads

  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • Special and General Relativity
2
Replies
55
Views
3K
  • Special and General Relativity
3
Replies
102
Views
3K
  • Special and General Relativity
2
Replies
67
Views
4K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
4
Views
867
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
4
Views
788
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
19
Views
3K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
19
Views
1K
  • Special and General Relativity
2
Replies
45
Views
3K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
21
Views
2K
Back
Top