Speed of Particles Homework: E=mc^2, E=Bev, Answer (a)?

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The discussion focuses on solving a physics homework problem related to the speed of particles using the equations E = mc^2 and E = Bev. The correct answer is identified as (a), but the method of obtaining it is unclear to the poster. They explore the relationship between the energies of two particles, leading to the equation (v1 / v2)^2 = (E1 / E2) * 2/167, and consider conservation of linear momentum to derive another equation. Ultimately, they conclude that the ratio of speeds v1 / v2 equals 58.5, confirming the correct answer. The conversation emphasizes the importance of energy and momentum conservation in particle physics problems.
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Homework Statement


The problem is at
http://dl.getdropbox.com/u/175564/physicsSpeedParticles.JPG

Homework Equations


The following equations may be useful
E = .5 mc^2
E = Bev

The Attempt at a Solution



The right answer is (a).
However, I am unsure how it is obtained.

For example, by comparing the energies of the two particles, we get only
(v1 / v2)^2 = (E1 / E2) * 2/167

where the energies are unknown.
 
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Consider the conservation of linear momentum.
 
rl.bhat said:
Consider the conservation of linear momentum.

I get the following equation
v1 / v2 = (p1 / p2) * (234 / 4)

I assume that the momentum of the alpha particle equals that of the original particle.

This gives us the right answer

v1 / v2 = (234 / 4)
= 58.5

Thank you for your answer!
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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