Physics · University
Lorentz factor
The speed is subluminal; Newtonian approximations become inaccurate as β increases.
Method and conditions
The speed is subluminal; Newtonian approximations become inaccurate as β increases.
γ = 1/√(1−β²), β=v/c
Worked examples
A particle moves at v=0.61c. Calculate its Lorentz factor γ. Round the final result to 4 decimal places if needed.
Substitute β=0.61 into γ=(1−β²)^(−1/2).
1.262
A particle moves at v=0.1c. Calculate its Lorentz factor γ. Round the final result to 4 decimal places if needed.
Substitute β=0.1 into γ=(1−β²)^(−1/2).
1.005
Try it
A particle moves at v=0.77c. Calculate its Lorentz factor γ. Round the final result to 4 decimal places if needed.
A particle moves at v=0.72c. Calculate its Lorentz factor γ. Round the final result to 4 decimal places if needed.
Check your work
Answers and marking notes
- 1.5673
Substitute β=0.77 into γ=(1−β²)^(−1/2).
- 1.441
Substitute β=0.72 into γ=(1−β²)^(−1/2).
Further reading and review references
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