Calculate Mass at Rest After Relativistic Particle Collision

In summary, relativistic particle collision refers to high-speed collisions that result in relativistic effects. The mass at rest after a collision can be calculated using the equation E=mc^2, which takes into account the energy, mass, and speed of light. It is important to calculate the mass at rest to understand the behavior of particles in high-energy collisions. The mass at rest is always greater than the mass before the collision, as predicted by Einstein's equation. Even if the particles have different velocities before the collision, the mass at rest can still be accurately calculated.
  • #1
martyf
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Homework Statement



A relativistic particle with mass at rest M0 and velocity v hits another particle with mass at rest M1. the collision is perfectly inelastic. How can I calculate the mass at rest of the new particles after the collision?



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Conservation of momentum and total energy.
 
  • #3
Easiest way to do this is using 4-momentum, [itex]p_\mu=(\frac{E}{c},\vec{p})[/itex]. Note that 4-momentum is conserved and [itex]p^\mu p_\mu=-m^2 c^2[/itex] is invariant.
 
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FAQ: Calculate Mass at Rest After Relativistic Particle Collision

What is meant by "relativistic particle collision"?

Relativistic particle collision refers to the collision of particles with high velocities, close to the speed of light. This leads to the manifestation of relativistic effects, such as time dilation and an increase in mass.

How do you calculate the mass at rest after a relativistic particle collision?

To calculate the mass at rest after a relativistic particle collision, you can use the equation E=mc^2, where E is the energy of the particle, m is its mass, and c is the speed of light. Rearranging the equation, you can solve for m, which gives you the mass at rest after the collision.

Why is it important to calculate the mass at rest after a relativistic particle collision?

Calculating the mass at rest after a relativistic particle collision is important because it helps us understand the effects of relativistic collisions on particle masses. It also allows us to accurately predict the behavior of particles in high-energy collisions, which is crucial in fields such as particle physics and nuclear physics.

Is the mass at rest always greater than the mass before the collision in a relativistic particle collision?

Yes, the mass at rest after a relativistic particle collision is always greater than the mass before the collision. This is due to the conversion of kinetic energy into mass during the collision, as predicted by Einstein's famous equation E=mc^2.

Can the mass at rest be calculated if the particles have different velocities before the collision?

Yes, the mass at rest can still be calculated even if the particles have different velocities before the collision. The equation E=mc^2 takes into account the total energy of the particles, including their kinetic energy, so the velocities of the particles do not affect the calculation of the mass at rest.

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