Exam-style question
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Which of the following best describes how the energy of a particle changes as its speed approaches the speed of light?.
- A.Energy decreases linearly with speed.
- B.Energy remains constant.
- C.Energy increases without bound.
- D.Energy oscillates.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Energy increases without bound.
Explanation
Why this works
Formula: E = γ m₀ c². Substitution: γ = 1/√(1‑v²/c²).
Working: As v → c, the denominator → 0, so γ → ∞ and E → ∞. Answer: Energy increases without bound.
Units: J.
Common mistake
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