Special relativity from different angle

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around concepts in special relativity, particularly focusing on the implications of relativistic mass and the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration at relativistic speeds. Participants explore the mathematical derivations and interpretations of these concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive a relationship involving energy and mass but questions the validity of their calculation regarding mass approaching infinity as velocity approaches the speed of light. Other participants challenge the use of the classical force equation in the context of special relativity and suggest alternative formulations. There is also exploration of the implications of relativistic mass on time dilation and perspectives from different inertial frames.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants questioning assumptions about relativistic mass and its implications for time dilation. Some guidance has been offered regarding the correct application of force in relativistic contexts, but multiple interpretations and explanations are still being explored without a clear consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating complex concepts that challenge classical intuitions about mass and acceleration, and there is acknowledgment of the limitations of classical special relativity as a framework for understanding these phenomena.

exponent137
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If we accelerate one body with mass m0 on a distance dx, then, we need energy dW:
dW = a m0 dx = dv/dt m dx = m0 dv v
Energy dW, which we gives weight dW= dm c^2
If we put this in differential equation, solvation is
dm/m0 = v dv /c^2
and
(m/m0)=exp(v^2/(2c^2))
But this calculation does not give that m is infinity at v = c.

What failing to my calculation?

(I know normal derivation of special relativity equation)
 
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You are assuming that in SR, F=ma, where m is the 'relativistic mass'.

This formula is fundmanetally wrong. See for instance

https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=687759&postcount=71

Doc Al said:
Careful here. At relativistic speeds, F no longer equals ma, even if you replace m by the "relativistic mass". Assuming that the force and acceleration are in the same direction as the object's velocity, and that the acceleration a is that measured by an inertial observer who measures the object to be moving at speed v, the relationship would be:
[tex]F = m \gamma^3 a[/tex]
where m is the usual invariant ("rest") mass. ([itex]m \gamma^3[/itex] is sometimes called the longitudinal mass.)

You can also take a look at http://www.math.ucr.edu/home/baez/physics/Relativity/SR/mass.html

in the addendum "what is the relativistic version of F=ma"
 
I found another formula for relativistic mass which works:
c^2 dm = m v dv gama^-2
where
gama=(1-(v/c)^2)^-1/2

The result is m = gama m0
Where m0 is mass at v=0.
This give the same formula of relativistic mass in longitudinal direction as in horizontal direction. This gives hint that absolute explanation is possible. This means slower time-run in rocket which moves very fast is consequence of larger mass in rocket and so means that we see mans in rocket moving slow. But how to explain that peoples in rocket see us that our clock run slow?

I understand that two main postulates of relativity,
1.speed of light is the same in every inertial system
2. All system are equally valid.
But one explanation should to exist, if we suppose that our system is privileged. Suppositions are more involved than with points 1 and 2, but some explanation should to exist.
 
Above mentioned relativistic mass (longitudinal = transverzal) is useful, because it is alternative explanation for time dilatation:
Because mass is larger, everything is moving slower and this gives slower time running.
But how this concept explain that someone in moving rocket see time dilatation on earth?
I suppose that that classical special relativity is only the most simple view on special relativity, but it is not the only one.


P.S
I think that this question of beginners, but thread was moved.
 

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