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Momentum Vectors For Antiparallel Relativistic Velocity Space Craft.

08/13/2011 2:30 PM

Hi Folks;

I am aware that the relative velocity composition formula for two relativistic space craft traveling in an antiparallel direction with respect to each other is as follows.

vrel = (v1 + v2)/{1 + [(v1 v2)/[C2]]}

I am also aware of the simple relativistic momentum formula of (Mo)(v)(gamma).

Provided both space craft had an invariant mass of Mo, would not each space craft experience the momentum of the other space craft as

(Mo)(vrel)(gamma) = (Mo){(v1 + v2)/{1 + [(v1 v2)/[C2]]}}{1/{{1 - [(vrel/C)2]}1/2}}

in the toy model case where each space craft could sense the momentum of the other oncomming or incident space craft.

I hope this question does not seem somewhat juvenile as I am a little rusty with some aspects of Special Relativity.

Thanks;

Jim

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#1

Re: Momentum vectors for antiparallel relativistic velocity space craft.

08/13/2011 5:30 PM

Jim,

When I'm confronted with this type of problem, I just pick up my horn and blow it out the big end.

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#3
In reply to #1

Re: Momentum vectors for antiparallel relativistic velocity space craft.

08/15/2011 5:18 PM

As in, pneumatic hooter?

I found a lot of applicable images... this is one I figured would not get zapped!

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#2

Re: Momentum Vectors For Antiparallel Relativistic Velocity Space Craft.

08/14/2011 9:46 AM

yes?

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#4

Re: Momentum Vectors For Antiparallel Relativistic Velocity Space Craft.

08/15/2011 5:23 PM

Jim, I see you are putting Jorrie's book to good use. Good for you!

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#5

Re: Momentum Vectors For Antiparallel Relativistic Velocity Space Craft.

08/16/2011 1:40 PM

Many of us are really juvenile there, so that's ok. Just pass the beer, please.

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#6

Re: Momentum Vectors For Antiparallel Relativistic Velocity Space Craft.

08/22/2011 7:29 PM

I think the answer is NO. Even thought both M0 are the same mass they are not the same M0.

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