1. What is Relativistic Momentum?

Definition: Relativistic momentum is the momentum of an object moving at speeds approaching the speed of light, accounting for special relativity effects.

Purpose: It extends classical momentum to account for the fact that no object can reach or exceed the speed of light.

2. How Does the Relativistic Momentum Equation Work?

The calculator uses two key formulas:

Where:

• \( p \) — Relativistic momentum (kg·m/s)
• \( \gamma \) — Lorentz factor (dimensionless)
• \( m \) — Mass of the object (kg)
• \( v \) — Velocity of the object (m/s)
• \( c \) — Speed of light (299,792,458 m/s)

Explanation: The Lorentz factor (γ) approaches infinity as velocity approaches the speed of light, preventing momentum from becoming infinite.

3. Importance of Relativistic Momentum

Details: At everyday speeds, relativistic effects are negligible, but become significant at velocities above about 10% of light speed (30,000 km/s).

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the object's mass in kg, its velocity in m/s, and the speed of light (default 299,792,458 m/s). Velocity must be less than the speed of light.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why can't velocity equal or exceed light speed?
A: As velocity approaches light speed, the Lorentz factor approaches infinity, requiring infinite energy to reach c.

Q2: How does relativistic momentum differ from classical momentum?
A: Classical momentum (p=mv) is accurate at low speeds, but underestimates momentum at relativistic speeds.

Q3: What's the physical meaning of the Lorentz factor?
A: γ accounts for time dilation and length contraction effects at high velocities.

Q4: When do relativistic effects become noticeable?
A: Typically above 10% of light speed, though precise calculations should always use relativistic formulas.

Q5: Does this apply to massless particles like photons?
A: Photons have momentum (p=E/c) despite having zero rest mass, via quantum mechanics.