22 January 2024
Soumendra Nath Thakur.
ORCiD: 0000-0003-1871-7803
The concept of relativistic mass can be understood as an effective mass. The original equation, m′ = m₀/√{1 - (v²/c²)} - m₀, is analysed within the context of special relativity, revealing that m′ takes on an energetic form due to its dependence on the Lorentz factor. The unit of m′, denoted in Joules (J), emphasizes its nature as an energetic quantity. The brief connection between relativistic mass (m′) and m′ being equivalent to an effective mass (mᵉᶠᶠ) highlights the distinctions between relativistic mass and rest mass (m₀), as m′ is not considered an invariant mass. To illustrate this, a practical example involving an 'effective mass' of 0.001 kg (mᵉᶠᶠ = 0.001kg) demonstrates the application of E = m′c², resulting in an actual energy of 9 × 10¹³ J. This uncovers the effective energy as a function of relativistic mass within the framework of special relativity.
Reference:
[1] Decoding Nuances: Relativistic Mass as Relativistic Energy, Lorentz's Transformations, and Mass-Energy Interplay
[2] Relativistic Mass and Energy Equivalence: Energetic Form of Relativistic Mass in Special Relativity
