What is the maximum speed attainable by particles and objects in space?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the maximum speed attainable by particles and objects in space, particularly focusing on electrons and atoms. It explores concepts from special relativity, velocity addition, and the implications of motion in relation to different frames of reference.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the maximum speed an electron can attain, suggesting a value of 0.8c and questioning if a carrier traveling at 0.1c could allow the electron to reach 0.9c.
  • Another participant explains that in special relativity, velocities do not simply add linearly, and that the speed of light is an asymptote that cannot be exceeded.
  • A similar inquiry is repeated by a participant, emphasizing the question of whether particles can exceed their maximum speed with the help of a carrier.
  • A further contribution discusses the concept of an object at rest and how it perceives the motion of other objects, highlighting the differences in velocity measurement between relativity and Newtonian physics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of velocity in special relativity, with some emphasizing the asymptotic nature of speed relative to light, while others question the implications of using carriers to increase particle speeds. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific mechanics of speed addition in this context.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the assumptions made about the velocities of particles and the effects of carriers, as well as the definitions of rest and motion in different frames of reference. The discussion does not resolve these complexities.

bodhi
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please let me kno what is the max speed an electron can attain,and max speed an atom can be projected with.now if we consider max attainable speed of electron 0.8c,then if we have a carrier traveling 0.1c,then will electron achieve speed 0.9c. simply speaking can any particle attain speed more of its capability with the help of a carrier.
 
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In SR, the velocity of an observer, if you plot it on a graph, will be asymptotic to the line representing the speed of light (d = t). You don't simply add two velocities or subtract like you would normally in euclidean n - space. Read this: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Velocity_addition and look at the SR velocity - addition formula. Disregarding equipment and practicality and whatnot, you could keep raising the electron's speed but it would always be asymptotic to that of v = c.
 
bodhi said:
please let me kno what is the max speed an electron can attain,and max speed an atom can be projected with.now if we consider max attainable speed of electron 0.8c,then if we have a carrier traveling 0.1c,then will electron achieve speed 0.9c. simply speaking can any particle attain speed more of its capability with the help of a carrier.

c minus 10E-infinity lol
 
If an object "A" does not have a force acting on it, it is at rest. If an object leaves our solar system with enough fuel to get close to a speed of light. The fuel runs out there is nothing to make the object go faster. The Speed of the object in relation to itself is zero but it sees the solar system it came from as having a velocity of close to the speed of light moving away from it. A body at rest is in a relation to itself.
If two objects are sent out from our solar system in opposite directions the solar system will see each of the objects as close to the speed of light. The objects will each see the solar system as moving away from them at say 99% the speed of light. The other object will be seen to be moving away at close to 99.5% the speed of light. Velocity is not measured in relativity as in Newtonian Physics. Bu they can be calculated from an object at rest.
 

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