Just a quick question on the derivation of energy

In summary, the conversation discusses a calculation involving the equation \mathcal{E}=p.v - L and the book arrives at a different equation, \mathcal{E}=\frac{m c^2}{\sqrt{1-\frac{v^2}{c^2}}}. The person is confused about the difference and asks for clarification. Another person suggests multiplying the second term by \frac{\sqrt{1-\frac{v^2}{c^2}}}{\sqrt{1-\frac{v^2}{c^2}}} to make it work.
  • #1
genericusrnme
619
2
I've been reading through a book on relativity and I came across this

[itex]\mathcal{E}=p . v - L[/itex]
[itex]\mathcal{E} =\frac{m v}{\sqrt{1-\frac{v^2}{c^2}}}.v + m c^2\sqrt{1-\frac{v^2}{c^2}}[/itex]

I know this part well enough but then the book arrives at

[itex]\mathcal{E}=\frac{m c^2}{\sqrt{1-\frac{v^2}{c^2}}}[/itex]

How did that happen?
All I can get is this

[itex]\mathcal{E} =\frac{m v^2}{\sqrt{1-\frac{v^2}{c^2}}} + m c^2\sqrt{1-\frac{v^2}{c^2}}\neq \frac{m c^2}{\sqrt{1-\frac{v^2}{c^2}}}[/itex]

What am I doing wrong here?

Thanks in advance
 
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  • #2
Multiply the second term by
[tex]\frac{\sqrt{1-\frac{v^2}{c^2}}}{\sqrt{1-\frac{v^2}{c^2}}}[/tex]
and I think you'll find that it works.
 
  • #3
Ah, thanks Parlyne
I feel like a tool now :L
 

FAQ: Just a quick question on the derivation of energy

What is the derivation of energy?

The derivation of energy is the process of calculating or determining the source or origin of energy. It involves understanding the various forms of energy and how they are converted or transferred from one form to another.

Why is the derivation of energy important?

The derivation of energy is important because it helps us understand the fundamental principles of energy and its role in the physical world. It also allows us to make accurate predictions and calculations related to energy usage and conservation.

How is energy derived?

Energy can be derived from various sources such as fossil fuels, renewable resources like wind and solar, and nuclear reactions. It can also be derived through chemical reactions, mechanical processes, and electromagnetic radiation.

What are the different types of energy?

The main types of energy are kinetic energy, potential energy, thermal energy, chemical energy, electrical energy, and nuclear energy. These can be further categorized into different forms, such as light energy, sound energy, and gravitational energy.

Can energy be created or destroyed?

According to the law of conservation of energy, energy cannot be created or destroyed. It can only be converted from one form to another. This means that the total amount of energy in a closed system remains constant.

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