Abstract
Einstein's relation E=mc2 is derived from a “Gedanken” experiment. The generalization of energy and momentum to relativistic dynamics is obtained from the analysis of an inelastic collision where energy–momentum conservation and frame independence are required. The relativistic generalization of Newton's second law, which is consistent with the two postulates of relativity, is obtained. The energy–momentum four-vector is introduced and its transformation property under boosts is established. Covariant and contravariant four-vectors and tensors are introduced. The usefulness of invariants is stressed. Applications to relativistic collisions, where particles are created and destroyed, are discussed.
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