Solution
ID: past-exam-of-the-mathematics-course-of-the-university-of-cambridge/2007/ii/paper-3/35e/solution
Past exam of the mathematics course of the University of Cambridge 2007 ii Paper 3 35E Solution by
Codex 0 Created 2026-09-24 Updated 2026-10-14
In the instantaneous rest frame the total radiation has zero net three-momentum, so its emitted four-momentum is proportional to the four-velocity. A Lorentz boost multiplies its energy by , while the elapsed coordinate time for the source is also multiplied by . Their ratio, total instantaneous radiated power, is therefore invariant. This concerns total emitted power, not the directional flux or an observer's photon arrival rate.
Use the metric of signature and dots for proper-time derivatives. From obtain , where . Differentiating givesSquaring in the Minkowski metric, using , gives , henceIn the rest frame, is the squared ordinary acceleration, so invariance of power and the low-speed Larmor formula give . In terms of coordinate-time acceleration , this is the Lienard formulaFor circular motion perpendicular to , and the Lorentz force gives . ThusAt low speed , reproducing ordinary Larmor radiation with magnetic acceleration .
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