How Do I Isolate Velocity in the Lorentz Factor Equation?

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In summary, the conversation is about solving for v in the Lorentz factor equation l = 1/√(1 - v²/c²). The solution involves cross-multiplying and then squaring both sides, resulting in the equation v = √((1 - 1/γ²)c²).
  • #1
phys121
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Alright, I am not the best at algebra. So i was wondering if anyone could show me how to get the V out on its own in the lorentz factor equation

l= 1/[tex]\sqrt{1-(v^2/c^2)}[/tex]


I tried to first times both sides by bottom then manipulate it but i just can't get it right.

Any help would be much appreciated!
 
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  • #2
Not exactly sure what you're trying to accomplish, but you can take:
γ = 1/√(1 - v²/c²)

and solve for v in terms of γ.

Cross-multiply and then square both sides.
 
  • #3
What, you mean like this...

[tex]\gamma[/tex]([tex]\sqrt{1-v^2/c^2}[/tex])=1

then: finally finishing with;

[tex]\sqrt{(1-1^2/\gamma^2)c^2}[/tex]=v

??
 
Last edited:
  • #4
phys121 said:
What, you mean like this...

[tex]\gamma[/tex]([tex]\sqrt{1-v^2/c^2}[/tex])=1

then: finally finishing with;

[tex]\sqrt{(1-1^2/\gamma^2)c^2}[/tex]=v

??

your question was 1/[tex]\sqrt{1-v^2/c^2}[/tex]=1 ?
 
  • #5
My question is how do i solve for "v", that l should be an L lower case. as in lorentz factor "L". not a 1. sorry

Like what should the final equation be?
 
  • #6
phys121 said:
What, you mean like this...

[tex]\sqrt{(1-1^2/\gamma^2)c^2}[/tex]=v

??


this is wrong.
return to the previous step square both sides, you don't have to multiply gamma into the square root.
 
  • #7
ah, right i get you now. Thanks!
 

FAQ: How Do I Isolate Velocity in the Lorentz Factor Equation?

How do I calculate velocity?

Velocity is calculated by dividing the change in position by the change in time. This can be represented by the equation v = Δx/Δt, where v is velocity, Δx is change in position, and Δt is change in time.

What is the difference between velocity and speed?

Velocity is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude (speed) and direction. Speed is a scalar quantity, meaning it only has magnitude. Therefore, velocity includes the direction of motion while speed does not.

How do I convert units of velocity?

To convert from one unit of velocity to another, you can use conversion factors. For example, to convert from meters per second to kilometers per hour, you can multiply the value by 3.6. It is important to pay attention to the units when performing conversions.

How does velocity affect an object's motion?

Velocity is one of the key factors that determines an object's motion. It determines the direction and speed of an object's movement. An object with a higher velocity will cover more distance in a given amount of time compared to an object with a lower velocity.

What is terminal velocity?

Terminal velocity is the maximum velocity that a falling object can reach when the force of gravity is balanced by the force of air resistance. This means that the object will no longer accelerate and will continue to fall at a constant velocity until it reaches the ground or encounters another force.

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