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Relativistic Mechanics

Problem 1.359

Two particles move toward each other with velocities v1=0.50cv_{1}=0.50 c and v2=0.75cv_{2}=0.75 c relative to a laboratory frame of reference. Find: (a) the approach velocity of the particles in the laboratory frame of reference; (b) their relative velocity.

Reveal Answer
1.359. (a) v=v1+v2=1.25cv=v_{1}+v_{2}=1.25 c (b) v=(v1+v2)/(1+v1v2/c2)=v=\left(v_{1}+v_{2}\right) /\left(1+v_{1} v_{2} / c^{2}\right)= =0.91c=0.91 c
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