Solving for velocity from relativistic momentum

In summary, the relativistic momentum equation can be rearranged in terms of velocity by setting the equation equal to the desired variable and solving for it. In this case, setting the equation equal to velocity and solving leads to the equation v=?, with further steps needed to solve for the specific value of velocity.
  • #1
chris_0101
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Homework Statement


I need help rearranging the relativistic momentum equation in terms of velocity.


Homework Equations


p = (mv)/sqrt(1-((v^2)/(c^2)))


The Attempt at a Solution


p = (mv)/sqrt(1-((v^2)/(c^2)))
p(sqrt(1-((v^2)/(c^2)))) = mv
sqrt(1-((v^2)/(c^2))) = mv/p
1-((v^2)/(c^2)) = (mv/p)^2
1- (mv/p)^2 = ((v^2)/(c^2))

This is where I am stuck. The part that confuses me is the fact that I have velocity on both sides. If I were to continue I believe that the velocities cancel each other out.

Thanks for the help.
 
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  • #2
from
1-((v^2)/(c^2))=(mv/p)^2
((m^2/p^2)+(1/c^2))v^2=1
v= ?
solve next step.
 

FAQ: Solving for velocity from relativistic momentum

How do I calculate velocity from relativistic momentum?

To calculate velocity from relativistic momentum, you can use the formula v = p/m, where v is the velocity, p is the momentum, and m is the mass.

What is relativistic momentum?

Relativistic momentum is a concept in physics that takes into account the effects of relativity on an object's momentum, particularly at high speeds close to the speed of light.

Why is it important to solve for velocity from relativistic momentum?

Solving for velocity from relativistic momentum is important because it allows us to accurately calculate the speed of an object that is moving at high speeds close to the speed of light. This is crucial in understanding the behavior of particles in the universe and in various fields of science, such as astrophysics and particle physics.

How does the formula for velocity from relativistic momentum differ from the classical formula?

The classical formula for velocity is v = p/m, while the relativistic formula is v = p/sqrt(m^2 + p^2), where c is the speed of light. This difference takes into account the effects of relativity on an object's momentum at high speeds.

Can I use the same formula for both massive and massless particles?

No, the formula for calculating velocity from relativistic momentum is only applicable to massive particles, as it takes into account the mass of the object. For massless particles, such as photons, the equation for calculating velocity is v = c, where c is the speed of light.

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