Relativistic Particle Decay: Strong, EM, Weak, or Gravitational Interactions?

AI Thread Summary
A relativistic particle traveling 3*10^-3 m before decaying raises questions about the dominant interaction type. Initial calculations suggest a timescale of 10^-11 seconds, indicating weak interactions. However, the text claims strong interactions dominate the decay process. The discussion highlights the importance of considering time dilation effects, as the particle's speed relative to light can significantly alter the observed decay time. More information about the particle's velocity is necessary to accurately determine the interaction type.
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Homework Statement


A relativistic particle travels a length of 3*10^-3 m before decaying.The decay process of this particle is dominated by...

(a)Strong interactions
(b)EM interactions
(c)weak interactions
(d)gravitational interactions.

Homework Equations




The Attempt at a Solution



Since the question says the particle is relativistic, i took its velocity = c
then,
t = x/v = 10-11
which is the timescale for weak interactions.

But the text says the answer is strong interaction.
Then wheres the mistake?
 
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Did you take into account time dilation?
 
How can i apply time dilation when velocity is not given?
 
Good question. Depending on how close to the speed of light the particle travels at, the 10-11 seconds in the lab frame could correspond to an arbitrarily short time interval in the particle's rest frame. I think you need more information to solve the problem.
 

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