When is something Lorentz invariant.

In summary, Lorentz invariance refers to the property of an object or event remaining unchanged under Lorentz transformations, which are transformations of space and time that preserve the speed of light and the laws of physics. To determine if something is Lorentz invariant, one must check if it behaves the same way in all inertial reference frames. The speed of light is the only Lorentz invariant quantity, as all other physical quantities can change with respect to different observers. A Lorentz invariant quantity will remain the same in all inertial reference frames, making it a fundamental principle in physics and a key component of Einstein's theory of special relativity.
  • #1
Dreak
52
0
Hello there,

I'm having a real problem understanding when a certain 'something' (for example Eddington-Finkelstein coordinates) is Lorentz invariant or how you can 'calculate' it.

Heck, I'm not even sure if a coordinate system must be lorentz invariant, or if the metric in the equations has to be lorentz invariant, or both?
 
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  • #2
A scalar that is formed out of tensors (trivially or non-trivially) is invariant under lorentz transformations and is said to be a lorentz invariant. Examples include the action, the space-time interval, and the rest mass.
 

1. When is something considered Lorentz invariant?

Something is considered Lorentz invariant if it remains unchanged under Lorentz transformations, which are transformations of space and time that preserve the speed of light and the laws of physics. This means that the measurements of an object or event will remain the same regardless of the observer's frame of reference.

2. How do you determine if something is Lorentz invariant?

To determine if something is Lorentz invariant, one must check if the object or event in question behaves the same way in all inertial reference frames. This can be done by applying Lorentz transformations to the quantities being measured and seeing if they remain unchanged.

3. Is the speed of light the only Lorentz invariant quantity?

Yes, the speed of light is the only Lorentz invariant quantity. This is because the speed of light is the same in all inertial reference frames, as stated by Einstein's theory of special relativity. All other physical quantities, such as mass and energy, can change with respect to different observers.

4. Can a Lorentz invariant quantity change in different reference frames?

No, a Lorentz invariant quantity will remain the same in all inertial reference frames. This is a fundamental principle of special relativity and has been confirmed by numerous experiments. Any changes in physical quantities between reference frames are due to relativistic effects, not changes in the Lorentz invariance of the quantity itself.

5. Why is Lorentz invariance important in physics?

Lorentz invariance is important in physics because it is a fundamental principle that explains the behavior of objects and events in the universe. It allows for consistent measurements and predictions across different frames of reference, and is a key component of Einstein's theory of special relativity. It also plays a crucial role in modern theories, such as quantum field theory and general relativity.

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