Special Relativity - Lorentz Force Law

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between the 4-force law and the Lorentz force law in the context of special relativity. Participants are attempting to connect these concepts and clarify the definitions involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the meaning of the terms used in the 4-force law, specifically the definitions of U and E_{uv}. There is uncertainty about the information provided in the problem statement.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the variables involved and expressing confusion about the lack of information in the original problem. No consensus has been reached yet.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted absence of definitions or explanations for the terms U and E_{uv}, which may hinder progress in understanding the problem.

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Homework Statement




Show that the 4-force law: F_u=q/c E_{uv}U^v leads to the usual Lorentz force law.


Homework Equations



F = E + v x B.

The Attempt at a Solution




What's U?
 
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Uv looks like a four velocity with a raised index. What is Euv?
 
I have no idea, the question doesn't say.
 
Anyone else have an idea?
 

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