What is the angular speed limit, like linear speed limit is c?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the concept of an angular speed limit analogous to the linear speed limit of the speed of light (c) in relativistic mechanics. Participants explore whether such a limit exists, how it might be defined, and the implications of radius on angular speed.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question whether there exists an angular speed limit similar to the speed of light, seeking clarification on the conditions under which such a limit might apply.
  • One participant suggests that the relationship between radius and angular speed must satisfy the condition that radius multiplied by angular speed must be less than c, indicating a practical limit rather than a fundamental one.
  • Another participant agrees that while no tangential velocity can exceed the speed of light, the maximum angular velocity is contingent on the radius of rotation, implying a conditional existence of a limit that is not fundamental like c.
  • A later reply proposes the formula c/R as a potential expression for the maximum angular speed, reflecting an expectation based on earlier discussions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether an angular speed limit is fundamental or merely practical, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

The discussion involves assumptions about the relationship between angular speed, radius, and the speed of light, which may not be fully articulated or agreed upon by all participants.

phydev
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what is the angular speed limit, like linear speed limit is c??

does there exist an angular speed limit, just like we have 'c' in relativistic mechanics?
If Yes, How?
If No, Why?
 
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phydev said:
does there exist an angular speed limit, just like we have 'c' in relativistic mechanics?
If Yes, How?
If No, Why?

At the simplest level, it depends on radius. Radius * angular speed < c is required. I doubt there is any other fundamental (rather than practical) limit.
 


phydev said:
does there exist an angular speed limit, just like we have 'c' in relativistic mechanics?
If Yes, How?
If No, Why?

Well, obviously no tangential velocity can exceed that of light. The maximum angular velocity would therefore depend on the radius of rotation. So, to answer your question, yes and no; there exists a maximum angular velocity which is determined by radius of rotation, but it is not fundamental the way c is.
 


so should it be c/R?? (as I was expecting!)
 

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