Is the Equation for Relativistic Two-Body Decay Correct?

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SUMMARY

The equation for relativistic two-body decay is confirmed to be correct in the rest frame of the total momentum P. The relationship is established as ##p_2^2 = P^2 - 2P \cdot p_1 + p_1^2##, leading to the conclusion that ##m_2^2 = M^2 - 2ME_1 + m_1^2##. The discussion clarifies that in this context, ##p_1## is defined as ##(E_1/c, \vec{p_1})##, and it is essential to note that units are set to c = 1 for the calculations to hold true.

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  • Understanding of relativistic physics concepts
  • Familiarity with four-momentum notation
  • Knowledge of energy-momentum relationships
  • Basic grasp of particle decay processes
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  • Study the derivation of four-momentum in relativistic physics
  • Explore the implications of using units where c = 1
  • Investigate the conservation laws in two-body decay scenarios
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Physicists, students of theoretical physics, and anyone studying particle decay mechanisms in relativistic contexts will benefit from this discussion.

EquationOfMotion
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Yes, it is correct (in the rest frame of P). It always holds that ##p_1^2 = m_1^2##.

Note that this is using units of c = 1.
 

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