How can I integrate the relativistic mass equation using an elegant method?

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In summary, the conversation revolves around finding a more elegant way to integrate the equation \int_0^v \frac{1}{(1-v^2)^{3/2}} \,dv, which is needed to calculate the relativistic mass m_v=\frac{m_0}{\sqrt{1-v^2/c^2}}. The person speaking has already derived the result using a clumsy method and is looking for a faster approach. Through discussion, it is determined that the current method used is the most efficient.
  • #1
Semo727
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Hello!

I would like to count (see the way how to count) this integral
[tex] \int_0^v \frac{1}{(1-v^2)^{3/2}} \,dv [/tex]
It should be
[tex]\frac{v}{\sqrt{1-v^2}}[/tex].
I have managed to count it (I have just derived the result, and followed steps in reversed order),
but this method was a little bit clumsy, I think.

It looked like this:
[tex]\int\frac{1}{(1-v^2)^{3/2}} \,dv=\int\frac{1-v^2+v^2}{(1-v^2)^{3/2}} \,dv=\int\left[\frac{1}{\sqrt{1-v^2}}+\frac{v^2}{(1-v^2)^{3/2}}\right]\,dv=[/tex]
[tex]=\frac{v}{\sqrt{1-v^2}}\ +\ C\ -\ \int\frac{v^2}{(1-v^2)^{3/2}}\,dv\ +\ \int\frac{v^2}{(1-v^2)^{3/2}}\,dv=\frac{v}{\sqrt{1-v^2}}\ +\ C[/tex]

so

[tex]\int_0^v \frac{1}{(1-v^2)^{3/2}} \,dv=\frac{v}{\sqrt{1-v^2}}\ +\ C\ -\ C\ =\frac{v}{\sqrt{1-v^2}}[/tex]

I would really appreciate if you write here some more elegant way (if exists) to count that integral.
I need to integrate it to get relativistic mass [tex]m_v=\frac{m_0}{\sqrt{1-v^2/c^2}}[/tex].
 
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  • #2
I for one admire the way you did it. :eek:
 
  • #3
:rolleyes: OK, thanks. I just thought that there is some much shorter way I don't know about becouse I don't know much about integrating methods. (I know just per partes and substitution)
 
  • #4
One way to check if your way of integrating is the fastest is to differentiate your answer and simplify to get back to the integrand. Then compare this process to the way you integrated. In this case, to differentiate, you have to use the product rule, then multiply the first term by (1-v2)/(1-v2), and then add the terms. This is exactly the reverse of how you integrated, which was to separate the integrand into the sum of two terms, multiply the first one by (1-v2)/(1-v2), and then use integration by parts (which you call counting), which is the integral equivalent to the product rule. This would suggest your way is the best.
 

FAQ: How can I integrate the relativistic mass equation using an elegant method?

What is an integral?

An integral is a mathematical concept that represents the area under a curve on a graph. It is used to calculate the total value or quantity of a function over a given range.

Why is it important to know how to solve integrals?

Integrals are used in many fields of science, including physics, engineering, and economics. They are essential for solving problems involving rates of change, finding areas and volumes, and modeling real-world phenomena.

How do you solve an integral?

To solve an integral, you need to use a technique called integration, which involves finding the antiderivative of a function. This can be done using various methods, such as substitution, integration by parts, or using specific formulas.

What are the different types of integrals?

There are two main types of integrals: definite and indefinite. A definite integral has specific limits of integration, while an indefinite integral does not. Additionally, integrals can be classified as definite or indefinite depending on whether they have a fixed or variable integrand, respectively.

Can integrals be used to solve real-world problems?

Yes, integrals are commonly used to solve real-world problems, such as finding the area under a velocity-time graph to determine the total distance traveled, or calculating the volume of a three-dimensional object. They are also used in economics to calculate total revenue or profit.

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