Solve SR Particle Velocity Homework Eqns for Kinetic Energy

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the kinetic energy equations for particles in the center of mass frame, specifically using the equations K = mc²/(1 - v²/c²)^(1/2) - mc² and E = ((pc)² + (mc²)²)^(1/2). The user initially miscalculated the kinetic energy of the particles, assuming it to be half of the energy released during decay from 498 MeV to 140 MeV, which totals 179 MeV. However, the correct approach involves recognizing that two pions are produced, necessitating a reevaluation of the energy distribution.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of relativistic kinetic energy equations
  • Familiarity with particle physics concepts, particularly decay processes
  • Knowledge of energy conservation in particle interactions
  • Basic grasp of center of mass frame calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of relativistic kinetic energy equations
  • Learn about energy distribution in particle decay processes
  • Explore calculations in the center of mass frame for particle collisions
  • Investigate the properties and interactions of pions in particle physics
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone involved in particle physics or studying relativistic mechanics, particularly those tackling problems related to kinetic energy and particle decay.

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.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
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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