Understanding De Broglie Matter Waves: How to Simplify E/p=c^2/v?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the relationship between energy (E), momentum (p), and the velocity of De Broglie matter waves, specifically the equation E/p = c²/v. The user initially attempts to derive this relationship using classical mechanics, assuming E is approximately mc² + (1/2)mv² and p = mv. However, the conversation emphasizes the necessity of applying relativistic formulas for energy and momentum to accurately simplify the equation. The conclusion is that classical approximations are insufficient for this derivation, and relativistic considerations must be employed.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of De Broglie waves and their properties
  • Familiarity with relativistic energy and momentum equations
  • Knowledge of classical mechanics, specifically kinetic energy and momentum
  • Basic grasp of wave-particle duality in quantum mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the relativistic energy-momentum relation
  • Learn about the implications of wave-particle duality in quantum mechanics
  • Explore the concept of De Broglie wavelength in more detail
  • Investigate the differences between classical and relativistic mechanics
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying quantum mechanics and relativity, as well as educators looking to clarify the relationship between energy, momentum, and wave properties in De Broglie matter waves.

AStaunton
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Just a very quick question:

in my notes I have the velocity of a DeBroglie wave is given by:

[tex]\nu\lambda=2\pi\nu\frac{\lambda}{2\pi}=\frac{\omega}{k}=\frac{E}{p}=\frac{c^{2}}{v}[/tex]

I can't figure out how he want from E/p=c^2/v.

I think the assumption is made that E is approximately equal to mc^2+(1/2)mv^2 and p=mv:

[tex]\implies\frac{E}{p}=\frac{m_{0}c^{2}+\frac{1}{2}m_{0}v^{2}}{m_{0}v}[/tex]

but I still can't see how the above simplifies to c^2/v!
 
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Try using the relativistic formulas for E and p, rather than the low-speed approximations.
 

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