In: Physics
In an inertial reference frame S, two objects A and B of equal rest mass m collide head on with equal but opposite velocities 4c/5 and stick together to form a final object C. In a different inertial reference frame S’, one object A is seen to be initially at rest.
(a) Determine the rest mass of the final object C by applying appropriate conservation laws in the S frame.
(b) What is the velocity of the moving object B before the collision in the S’ frame?
(c) Determine the rest mass of the final object C by applying appropriate conservation laws in the S’ frame.
(d) Explain briefly why the results of parts (a) and (c) should be the same (or not).