Exam-style question
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When a particle is accelerated to relativistic speeds, its kinetic energy is best described by which of the following?.
- A.Classical kinetic energy formula (½ mv²).
- B.Relativistic kinetic energy formula ((γ‑1)mc²).
- C.Potential energy formula (mgh).
- D.Elastic potential energy formula (½ kx²).
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Relativistic kinetic energy formula ((γ‑1)mc²).
Explanation
Why this works
Formula: E_k = (γ‑1) m c². Substitution: γ = 1/√(1‑v²/c²).
Working: For v close to c, γ ≫ 1, so E_k is large. Answer: Relativistic kinetic energy formula.
Units: J.
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