berlinspeed
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- Homework Statement
- Can someone explain why the squared length of p^2 = p dot p = -m^2 and not -m^2*c^2?
- Relevant Equations
- p^2 = p dot p = -m^2
Explained in statement.
The squared length of 4-momentum, denoted as p^2, is defined as p dot p, which equals -m^2 in the context of special relativity. This relationship is contingent upon the choice of metric and the units employed, specifically highlighting that in "natural" units where c=1, the equation simplifies to p^2 = -m^2. This clarification addresses the common confusion regarding the inclusion of c^2 in the equation.
PREREQUISITESPhysicists, students of theoretical physics, and anyone studying the principles of special relativity and 4-momentum calculations.
berlinspeed said:Problem Statement: Can someone explain why the squared length of p^2 = p dot p = -m^2 and not -m^2*c^2?
Relevant Equations: p^2 = p dot p = -m^2
Explained in statement.