1987American Journal of PhysicsRequires access

Does mass really depend on velocity, dad?

Carl G. Adler

Open publisher page 114 citations

Abstract

Relativistic mass is discussed in both a pedagogical and historical context. It is pointed out that its introduction into the theory of special relativity was much in the way of a historical accident. Gaining widespread use initially in instruction, the use of relativistic mass is showing signs of progressive disfavor. An analysis and criticism of the various ways relativistic mass is used in relativity is detailed and special attention is given to the frequent misuse of relativistic mass as an inertia.

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What this paper is about

Relativistic mass is discussed in both a pedagogical and historical context. It is pointed out that its introduction into the theory of special relativity was much in the way of a historical accident. Gaining widespread use initially in instruction, the use of relativistic mass is showing signs of progressive disfavor. An analysis and criticism of the various ways relativistic mass is used in relativity is detailed and special attention is given to the frequent misuse of relativistic mass as an inertia.

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OpenAlex reports 114 citations for this work. Citation counts describe recorded attention and do not establish research quality.

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Available abstract

Relativistic mass is discussed in both a pedagogical and historical context. It is pointed out that its introduction into the theory of special relativity was much in the way of a historical accident. Gaining widespread use initially in instruction, the use of relativistic mass is showing signs of progressive disfavor. An analysis and criticism of the various ways relativistic mass is used in relativity is detailed and special attention is given to the frequent misuse of relativistic mass as an inertia.

Key concepts: Physics, Theory of relativity, Special relativity, Criticism, Context (archaeology), Relativistic mechanics, Inertia, Relativistic quantum chemistry

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