Solve SR Particle Velocity Homework Eqns for Kinetic Energy

AI Thread Summary
To solve the kinetic energy of particles in the center of mass frame, the correct approach involves using the relativistic kinetic energy equation K = mc^2/(1 - v^2/c^2)^(1/2) - mc^2 and the energy-momentum relation E = ((pc)^2 + (mc^2)^2)^(1/2). The initial assumption that the kinetic energy would be half of the decay energy (179MeV) is incorrect because two pions are produced, not one. The discussion highlights the importance of correctly accounting for the number of particles created in decay processes. Understanding these concepts is crucial for accurately calculating kinetic energy in relativistic scenarios.
gnulinger
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Homework Statement


http://i.imgur.com/VVVAl.png


Homework Equations


K = mc^2/(1 -v^2/c^2)^(1/2) - mc^2
E = ((pc)^2 + (mc^2)^2)^(1/2)


The Attempt at a Solution


I don't know how to find the kinetic energies of the particles in the center of mass frame. I thought that they should just be exactly half the energy released in the decay from 498MeV to 140MeV (i.e. 179MeV), but that is wrong.
 
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Two pions are created, not one.
 
Thanks. I had just been working on the problem for a while and I was stuck in a rut.
 

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