Abstract
This chapter discusses the principles of relativistic mechanics. Two key dynamic concepts—linear momentum and kinetic energy—are generalized so that the conservation laws of linear momentum and energy hold for particle speeds up to the speed of light. The relativistic expression for kinetic energy leads to the mass–energy relation, E= mc 2 . The relativistic conservation laws are tested when they are applied to systems in which particles are created or annihilated. The form of the relativistic linear momentum was developed by Einstein on a purely theoretical basis as part of a comprehensive relativity theory for mechanics. Modern experiments measuring the deflection of charged particles in magnetic fields yield values that are in agreement with Einstein's expression for relativistic momentum. A particle in motion possesses kinetic energy in addition to its rest mass energy. One aspect of the interaction of high-energy subatomic particles is the creation of new particles or the conversion of kinetic energy into particle mass.
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