Does Moving Train See Stationary Observer at .6c? - I'm Not Sure

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In summary, the conversation discusses the relative velocity between a stationary observer and a moving train going at 0.6c. While the observer sees the train moving at 0.6c, the train sees the observer moving at -0.6c according to the standard configuration for the Lorentz Transform. However, in terms of speed, both parties see each other moving at 0.6c. The importance of the Lorentz Transform in Special Relativity is also mentioned, specifically in regards to the reciprocity of using 0.6c when transforming frames.
  • #1
goodabouthood
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A stationary observer sees a moving train going at .6c.

Does the moving train see the stationary observer going .6c from his frame of reference as well?

I want to say yes but I'm not sure.
 
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  • #2
Yes, but if we want to use the standard configuration for the Lorentz Transform, we say that the train sees the observer moving at -0.6c.
 
  • #3
Yes in terms of "velocity". In terms of the "speed", which is what relativity normally deals with, each sees the other as moving at 0.6c.
 
  • #4
The Lorentz Transform which is so very important in Special Relativity will not be reciprocal if you use 0.6c when transforming from one frame to the other and back again. If you use 0.6c when transforming an event from the first frame into the second frame then you must use -0.6c when you transform that event back into the first frame if you expect to get the same event you started with.
 

1. What is the speed of the train and the observer in this scenario?

The speed of the train is .6c, which means it is moving at 60% of the speed of light. The observer, who is stationary at the train station, is considered to have a velocity of 0.

2. How does the train appear to the stationary observer?

Since the train is moving at such a high speed, it will appear to be contracted in length and its time will appear to be dilated to the stationary observer. This is due to the effects of special relativity.

3. Can the observer on the train see the stationary observer at the same speed?

According to the principle of relativity, both observers will see each other moving at the same speed. However, the train observer will see the stationary observer as being contracted in length and having a slower passage of time.

4. How does the perception of time differ between the train and the stationary observer?

The train observer will perceive time to be passing slower compared to the stationary observer. This is known as time dilation, which is a consequence of moving at high speeds relative to each other.

5. What other effects are seen when observing a moving train at .6c?

In addition to length contraction and time dilation, the train will also appear to have a different color due to the Doppler effect. The frequency of light reflecting off of the train will be shifted, causing a change in perceived color. Additionally, the train will appear to be brighter due to the increased energy of the light waves being emitted from the train's moving source.

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