Velocities of objects moving towards and away from each other

[ilikescience94]

Am I correct in my understanding that two objects moving away from each other movee away from each other at the speed designated by this equation: (V1+V2)/((1+((V1*VS)/(C^2)))) I was wondering if this same equation was used to determine the velocity at which two objects move towards each other as well. It seems like it would be the same, but then again, I would think that the combined velocity of 2 objects would just be V1+V2, so I'm just being careful.

 

[phinds]

Yes, you are correct with the equation.

Given that nothing can exceed the speed of light it is not possible for the combined velocity of two objects to be V1 + V2

 

[ilikescience94]

Alright sweet, thanks

 

[Naty1]

background here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Velocity-addition_formula

You can find Einstein's own derivation online in free versions of his book
'Relativity, The special and the general theory' .