Total energy

Definition

Total energy in special relativity includes both the rest energy and the kinetic energy of an object. It is given by the equation $E = \gamma mc^2$, where $\gamma$ is the Lorentz factor, $m$ is the rest mass, and $c$ is the speed of light.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The total energy combines both rest energy and kinetic energy.
2. In relativistic physics, total energy is given by $E = \gamma mc^2$.
3. The Lorentz factor $\gamma$ accounts for time dilation and length contraction at high velocities.
4. As velocity approaches the speed of light, total energy increases without bound.
5. Rest mass ($m_0$) remains constant, but relativistic mass increases with velocity.

Review Questions

• What equation represents the total energy in special relativity?
• How does total energy change as an object's velocity approaches the speed of light?
• What role does the Lorentz factor play in calculating total energy?

Related terms

Rest Energy:

The intrinsic energy of an object due to its mass alone, given by $E_0 = mc^2$.

Lorentz Factor:

A factor that describes how much time dilates and lengths contract at velocities close to the speed of light, defined as $\gamma = \frac{1}{\sqrt{1 - (v^2/c^2)}}$.

Relativistic Kinetic Energy: The additional energy possessed by an object due to its motion, calculated as $(\gamma - 1)mc^2$.