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Joined 1 year ago
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Cake day: July 14th, 2023

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  • But how do you apply this with Lorentz’ transformation (i.e. relativistic factors)? You cannot approach the speed of light without considering relativism. It is known that p = gamma * m * v where p is momentum, gamma is the gamma factor given by sqrt(1/(1 - (v^2/c^2))), m is mass and v is velocity. If you study the gamma factor, you’ll realize that it approaches infinite as v approaches c, the speed of light. Since we are actually dealing with light here, where v = c we are breaking the equation. Momentum cannot be defined for any mass which moves at the speed of light. It’s asymptotic at that speed.

    Also note that the same goes for E = mc^2. At relativistic speeds, also this equation needs to consider the gamma factor. So those classical equations break down for light.

    The answer is that photons don’t have mass, but they have energy. There is a good explanation a bit further up in this thread on how this is possible.






  • I’ll have a go at this.

    “No stupid questions” is something I think is applicable to any attempt at gaining knowledge, insight or perspective. “How big helicopter would you need to hoist an ice cube to the sun to extinguish it?” Though absurd, there might be a disconnect of knowledge, and the question reveals other things which could be explained.

    To me, a stupid question would be some kind of rhetoric which doesn’t seek information, but instead attempts to redicule and push own standpoints or beliefs. “Have you gotten over that religious faith yet?” or “Do you realize how dumb your political views are?”. These are examples of ineffective and condescending and will likely just leave the other person with reinforced standpoints in addition to annoyance. I find that to be a stupid approach and thus a stupid question.

    I don’t really know, but it’s my gut feeling.