Solve V1=(V2-u)/(1-uV2/C2) for V2

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  • Thread starter Thread starter jhanson58
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the equation V1=(V2-u)/(1-uV2/C2) for V2. Participants explore the mathematical representation of the equation, the use of notation, and the potential connections to concepts in special relativity.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express confusion about the notation, particularly regarding subscripts and how to properly format equations for clarity.
  • One participant suggests using parentheses to clarify the order of operations in the equation.
  • Another participant provides guidance on using LaTeX to format mathematical expressions correctly on the forum.
  • A participant draws a parallel between the equation and the velocity addition formula from special relativity, proposing a rearrangement to express V2 in terms of V1 and u.
  • Some participants seek assistance with formatting issues and express frustration about not being able to see helpful symbols for inputting equations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the correct formatting of the equation or the best method to express it. Participants have varying levels of understanding regarding notation and mathematical representation.

Contextual Notes

Participants demonstrate uncertainty about the proper use of mathematical symbols and formatting tools available on the forum, which may affect their ability to communicate their mathematical problems effectively.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in mathematical notation, equation formatting, and connections to concepts in physics, particularly special relativity, may find this discussion useful.

jhanson58
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I am trying to understand my math problem. I know what an exponent is. But what does it mean when X 2 you have a little 2 in the lower right hand corner.

V1=V2-u/1-uV2/C2 Solve for V2 How do I go about doing this.
 
Last edited:
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jhanson58 said:
I am trying to understand my math problem. I know what an exponent is. But what does it mean when X 2 you have a little 2 in the lower right hand corner.

V1=V2-u/1-uV2/C2 Solve for V2 How do I go about doing this.

Welcome to MHB, jhanson58! :)

A little 2 in the lower right hand corner distinguishes variables.
So $x_1$ is a different variable from $x_2$.
We might also call them simply $x$ and $y$.As for your equation, can you clarify it?
I read it as:
$$V_1=V_2-{u \over 1}-{uV_2 \over C_2}$$
But I suspect that is not what you intended.
What did you intend?Btw, as you can see I moved your post to a new thread, since it's a new topic.
 
The problem is

V1=V2-u
-----
1-uV2
----
C2Solve for V2

How do I put symbols or equation on this page.
 
Start by using parentheses. Every expression can be written in one line using parentheses. Remember the order of operations.
 
jhanson58 said:
The problem is

V1=V2-u
-----
1-uV2
----
C2Solve for V2

How do I put symbols or equation on this page.

On our toolbar, you will see a button with the $$\sum$$ character on it. Clicking this button will generate the MATH tags, between which you can put your $\LaTeX$ code. To see the code used by others, right click the expression, and from the pop-up menu choose Show Math As ► Tex Commands. You can then copy/past the code for your own use/modification.

There is a small learning curve to get familiar with the characters and commands, but once you get some practice it becomes second nature.
 
jhanson58 said:
The problem is

V1=V2-u
-----
1-uV2
----
C2Solve for V2

How do I put symbols or equation on this page.

Is it like this?
$$V_1 = \frac {V_2 - u} {1 - \frac{uV_2}{C_2}}$$

Note that when you click Reply With Quote, you can see how I typed the formula and you can easily copy+paste it.
 
I do not understand how to put the problem in correctly.$$$$when I right click on it. I do not see any symbols to help me.
 
jhanson58 said:
I do not understand how to put the problem in correctly. when I right click on it.
Well, you should right-click a mathematical expression (and then select "Show Math As ► Tex Commands") in another post, like the following expression from post #6:
\[
V_1 = \frac {V_2 - u} {1 - \frac{uV_2}{C_2}}
\]
You may need to turn Javascript on in your browser. If this does not work, use other suggestions above.
 
Last edited:
It looks to be like a variant on the velocity addition formula from SR:
\large v_1 = \frac {v_2 - u} {1 - \frac{uv_2}{c^2}}

-Dan
 
  • #10
topsquark said:
It looks to be like a variant on the velocity addition formula from SR:
\large v_1 = \frac {v_2 - u} {1 - \frac{uv_2}{c^2}}

-Dan

Nice one! ;)

Then, to solve $v_2$ from it, we can observe that in SR from the perspective of the other observer, the velocities are added instead of subtracted. Therefore:
$$v_2 = \frac {v_1 + u} {1 + \frac{uv_1}{c^2}}$$
 
  • #11
i need help! it says 0.999999... is 1! how can That be?
 
  • #12
Granny said:
i need help! it says 0.999999... is 1! how can That be?

Where does "it" say that?
 

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