Special relativity concept question

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the speed at which relativistic effects deviate from classical expectations by 1%, using the concept of gamma (gammav). The key equation provided is gammav = 1 / sqrt(1 - v²/c²), and the goal is to set gammav to 1.01. Participants express confusion about isolating the variable v, mistakenly considering both c and v as unknowns. Clarification is given that c is a constant (the speed of light), allowing for the solution of v in terms of c. The thread emphasizes the importance of correctly applying the formula to find the desired speed.
squishy-fish
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Homework Statement



gammav is a reasonable measure of the size of relativistic effects. Roughly speaking, at what speed would observations deviate from classical expectations by 1%?

Homework Equations



gammav = 1/ [sqrt91.v2) / c2]

The Attempt at a Solution



I've honestly puzzled over this question for hours, and have gotten nowhere. Any hints would be greatly appreciated. I have no idea where to even start. I know that I need gammav to be equal to 1.01 for it to be 1% different from classical physics. . .
However I'm not sure where to go from here.
 
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squishy-fish said:
I know that I need gammav to be equal to 1.01 for it to be 1% different from classical physics. . .
Why not set up an equation expressing this and then solve for v?
 
so 1.01 = 1/ [sqrt(1 - v2) / c2]
But now I have 2 unknowns..c and v right? So how do I isolate just v?
 
squishy-fish said:
so 1.01 = 1/ [sqrt(1 - v2) / c2]
But now I have 2 unknowns..c and v right? So how do I isolate just v?
c is not an unknown, it's the speed of light! Your answer for v will be in terms of c. Just solve for v like you normally would.
 
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