Compute Relativistic Velocities of Photons & Neutrinos

In summary, the speed of photons is c and neutrinos have rest mass, allowing them to have any speed less than c.
  • #1
petrushkagoogol
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Can we compute the relativistic velocities of 2 photons or 2 neutrinos ? :))
 
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  • #2
petrushkagoogol said:
Can we compute the relativistic velocities of 2 photons or 2 neutrinos ? :))
Can you give a little context? What do you mean by "relativistic velocity" and which two photons or which two neutrinos do you have in mind?
 
  • #3
Any two that originate from the same source.
 
  • #4
The speed of photons is c. Neutrinos may have any speed < c.
 
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  • #5
Dale said:
The speed of photons is c. Neutrinos may have any speed < c.
Does this imply that neutrinos have rest mass ?
 
  • #6
petrushkagoogol said:
Does this imply that neutrinos have rest mass ?
The implication goes in the other direction. Neutrinos have mass, therefore they can have any speed < c.
 
  • #7
petrushkagoogol said:
Does this imply that neutrinos have rest mass ?
Yes, neutrinos have rest mass.
 

1. How do you calculate the relativistic velocity of a photon or neutrino?

The formula for calculating the relativistic velocity of a photon or neutrino is v = c/n, where c is the speed of light and n is the refractive index of the medium the particle is traveling through. This formula is based on Einstein's theory of special relativity.

2. What is the speed of light in a vacuum?

The speed of light in a vacuum is a fundamental constant and is approximately 299,792,458 meters per second. This is the maximum speed at which anything in the universe can travel.

3. How does the relativistic velocity of a photon or neutrino differ from the classical velocity?

The relativistic velocity takes into account the effects of special relativity, including time dilation and length contraction, which are not accounted for in classical physics. This means that the velocity of a photon or neutrino, as calculated using the relativistic formula, will be slightly different from the classical velocity in certain circumstances.

4. Can the relativistic velocity of a photon or neutrino exceed the speed of light?

No, according to Einstein's theory of special relativity, the speed of light is the maximum speed at which any particle or object can travel. Therefore, the relativistic velocity of a photon or neutrino cannot exceed the speed of light.

5. Why is it important to calculate the relativistic velocity of photons and neutrinos?

Calculating the relativistic velocity of these particles is important for understanding their behavior and interactions in various mediums and conditions. It also helps to explain phenomena such as time dilation and the effects of gravity on light. Additionally, it allows for more accurate predictions and calculations in fields such as astrophysics and particle physics.

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