On the Synge equations in a three-dimensional two-body problem of classical electrodynamics (Q1173604)

The paper deals with Synge's equations of motion describing interaction between two moving charged particles within the frame of the special theory of relativity. We would like to point out the main difference between \textit{R. D. Driver}'s results [J. Differ. Equations 54, No. 1, 73--86 (1984; Zbl 1428.34119); Ann. Phys. 21, 122--142 (1963: Zbl 0108.40705)] and ours. Synge's equations are eight in number. The unknown functions are six in number and Driver sets an initial value problem for a system of six equations ignoring the fourth and eighth equation. The specialists can appreciate the physical applicability of his results. Our considerations are based on Synge's equations, too. We use, however, the information from the 4th and 8th equation including them in the system by suitable transformations. We establish not only an existence theorem but a qualitative estimate of the distance between moving particles as well.