Relativistic Addition of Proton Velocities

In summary, the problem involves finding the velocity of a proton relative to the laboratory frame, given its velocity relative to an electron moving at 0.90c. Using the correct Lorentz transformation formula or the "addition of velocity" formula, the resulting velocity of the proton relative to the laboratory frame can be calculated.
  • #1
catch-22
5
0

Homework Statement



An electron moves to the right with a speed of 0.90c relative to the laboratory frame. A proton moves to the left with a speed of 0.70c relative to the electron. Find the speed of the proton relative to the laboratory frame.

Homework Equations



Vx'=[Vx-V]/[1+(v2/c2)*Vx]

The Attempt at a Solution



I have no idea where to start other than substituting 0.9c in for V.
 
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  • #2
Using the Lorentz transformation for velocity is a perfectly fine approach. But that formula isn't correct. (Not even dimensionally.) So look up the correct formula.

Hint: Let the lab frame be the moving frame (primed) and let the proton's frame be the "stationary" frame (unprimed).

You can also just use the "addition of velocity" formula, which is derived from the Lorentz transformation (of course).
 
  • #3
Ahh, got it. Our physics teacher gave us a slightly off formula, so it was cleared up today. Thanks!
 

Related to Relativistic Addition of Proton Velocities

1. What is the concept of "Relativistic Addition of Proton Velocities"?

The concept of "Relativistic Addition of Proton Velocities" is a principle in physics that describes how the velocities of two protons moving in different directions can be combined in a relativistic manner. This means that the combined velocity of the two protons is not simply the sum of their individual velocities, but is instead calculated using the principles of special relativity.

2. How is the velocity of two protons moving in the same direction calculated using the principle of "Relativistic Addition of Proton Velocities"?

When two protons are moving in the same direction, their velocities are simply added together to determine the combined velocity. This is because the effects of special relativity are negligible when objects are moving at the same speed in the same direction.

3. How does the principle of "Relativistic Addition of Proton Velocities" affect the calculated velocity of two protons moving in opposite directions?

When two protons are moving in opposite directions, the principle of "Relativistic Addition of Proton Velocities" takes into account the fact that the speed of light is constant for all observers. This means that the combined velocity of the two protons will not simply be the sum of their individual velocities, but will be slightly less due to the effects of time dilation and length contraction.

4. Can the principle of "Relativistic Addition of Proton Velocities" be applied to other particles besides protons?

Yes, the principle of "Relativistic Addition of Proton Velocities" can be applied to any particles that have mass and are moving at relativistic speeds. This includes other subatomic particles such as electrons and neutrons, as well as larger particles like atoms and molecules.

5. What are some real-world applications of the principle of "Relativistic Addition of Proton Velocities"?

The principle of "Relativistic Addition of Proton Velocities" has many practical applications in fields such as particle physics, astrophysics, and engineering. It is used to accurately calculate the velocities of particles in high-energy collisions, to understand the behavior of particles in extreme environments like black holes, and to design and optimize spacecraft and other high-speed vehicles.

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