Introduction to Electrodynamics · Problem 12.3

Electrodynamics and Relativity — David J. Griffiths

Physics · special-relativity-velocity-addition

Problem

(a) What's the percent error introduced when you use Galileo's rule, instead of Einstein's, with

v_{AB} = 5

mi/h and

v_{BC} = 60

mi/h? (b) Suppose you could run at half the speed of light down the corridor of a train going three-quarters the speed of light. What would your speed be relative to the ground? (c) Prove, using Eq. 12.3, that if

v_{AB} < c

and

v_{BC} < c

then

v_{AC} < c

. Interpret this result.

Related theory

Angular Velocity And Linear Velocity Relation

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