Show that Newton's Second Law is valid?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the validity of Newton's Second Law in different frames of reference, specifically comparing a laboratory frame with an observer moving at a constant speed, which is small compared to the speed of light. Participants are exploring the implications of this law in terms of derivatives and acceleration.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to understand the relationship between the derivatives of position in different frames and questioning the implications of constant speed on Newton's Second Law. There are inquiries about the meaning of the notation and the reasoning behind the subtraction of velocity from the derivative.

Discussion Status

Some participants are seeking clarification on specific mathematical expressions and their physical meanings. There is an ongoing exploration of the concepts involved, with some guidance provided regarding the interpretation of derivatives and their relation to acceleration.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the notation used in the equations and the assumptions regarding the speed of the observer relative to the speed of light. The discussion reflects a need for deeper understanding of the underlying principles of motion and forces in different reference frames.

Tonia
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Homework Statement


In a laboratory frame of reference, an observer notes that Newton's 2nd Law is valid.
Show that Newton's 2nd Law is also valid for an observer moving at a constant speed, small compared with the speed of light, relative to the laboratory frame.

Homework Equations


dx'/dt = dx/dt - v

The Attempt at a Solution



d^2 x' / dt^2 = d^2 x/ dt^2 Can someone help me understand this better?
 
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Tonia said:

Homework Statement


In a laboratory frame of reference, an observer notes that Newton's 2nd Law is valid.
Show that Newton's 2nd Law is also valid for an observer moving at a constant speed, small compared with the speed of light, relative to the laboratory frame.

Homework Equations


dx'/dt = dx/dt - v

The Attempt at a Solution



d^2 x' / dt^2 = d^2 x/ dt^2 Can someone help me understand this better?
Which part don't you understand?

Chet
 
I don't understand the whole answer. Can you explain what each part means?
 
I know it means derivative but that's it.
 
The velocity is subtracted from the derivative because it has to be smaller than the speed of light? Also, why is the d squared on the second part and why is d^2x` divided by dt/2 and why does this equal: d^2 x/ dt^2??
 
The second derivative of $x$ is the acceleration $a$. Considering that the second Newton's law states that $F=ma$, your acceleration doesn't varies because you have added a constant. So, the second Newton's law is valid in this reference frame.

Also, you are mistaken with the notation. $d^2x/dt^2$ means "second derivative of x respect to time".
 

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