Lorentz transformation and lorentz-Einstein transformations

In summary, there is a distinction between Lorentz transformations and Lorentz-Einstein transformations, although many people use them interchangeably. In strict terms, using LT to refer to Lorentz-Einstein transformations is incorrect, as Lorentz transformations involve a physical change in matter while Lorentz-Einstein transformations involve a change in the coordinate system. However, many people still use LT when referring to Lorentz-Einstein transformations. This is similar to saying "I weigh 80 kilograms."
  • #1
bernhard.rothenstein
991
1
I find in the literature of the subject:
Lorentz transformations and Lorentz-Einstein transformations. The use of one or of the other could lead to a difference in interpretation?
Thanks
 
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  • #2
bernhard.rothenstein said:
I find in the literature of the subject:
Lorentz transformations and Lorentz-Einstein transformations. The use of one or of the other could lead to a difference in interpretation?
Thanks
I think most people loosely use them interchangeably.
In strict terms, saying simply LT is a misnomer (even though we all use it).
Lorentz meant a real physical change in the matter in order to avoid SR.
The L-ET is a change in the coordinate system in order to leave the matter unchanged, which is SR. I confess to still saying LT when I mean L-ET.
It's sort of like saying "I weigh 80 kilograms."
 
  • #3
for your question. The Lorentz transformation and the Lorentz-Einstein transformation are both mathematical equations that describe how space and time coordinates change when observed from different inertial frames of reference. They were both developed in the early 20th century by physicists Hendrik Lorentz and Albert Einstein, and are key components of special relativity.

The Lorentz transformation was originally proposed by Lorentz to explain the results of the Michelson-Morley experiment, which showed that the speed of light is constant regardless of the observer's frame of reference. This transformation describes the relationship between space and time coordinates in two inertial frames that are moving relative to each other at a constant velocity. It does not take into account the effects of gravity.

On the other hand, the Lorentz-Einstein transformation, also known as the Einstein transformation, was developed by Einstein as part of his theory of special relativity. It incorporates the effects of gravity and describes the relationship between space and time coordinates in two inertial frames that are moving relative to each other at any velocity, not just a constant one.

In terms of interpretation, both transformations yield the same physical results and are considered equivalent. However, the Lorentz-Einstein transformation is considered to be more fundamental as it is based on the concept of the constancy of the speed of light, which forms the foundation of special relativity.

In summary, while both transformations are valid and widely used in physics, the Lorentz-Einstein transformation is considered to be more comprehensive and fundamental in its application to special relativity.
 

What is the Lorentz transformation?

The Lorentz transformation is a mathematical formula developed by Dutch physicist Hendrik Antoon Lorentz in the late 19th century. It describes how space and time coordinates change between two frames of reference that are moving at a constant velocity relative to each other.

What is the Lorentz-Einstein transformation?

The Lorentz-Einstein transformation, also known as the Lorentz transformation with time dilation and length contraction, is a modification of the original Lorentz transformation developed by Albert Einstein in his theory of special relativity. It includes the concept of time dilation and length contraction, which describe the effects of moving at high speeds on the measurement of time and distance.

What is the difference between the Lorentz transformation and the Lorentz-Einstein transformation?

The main difference between the two transformations is that the Lorentz-Einstein transformation takes into account the effects of time dilation and length contraction, while the original Lorentz transformation does not. This makes the Lorentz-Einstein transformation more accurate in describing the behavior of objects moving at high speeds.

What is the significance of the Lorentz transformation in physics?

The Lorentz transformation is a crucial concept in both classical and modern physics. It forms the basis of Einstein's theory of special relativity, which has revolutionized our understanding of space and time. The Lorentz transformation also has practical applications in fields such as particle physics, where it is used to describe the behavior of subatomic particles moving at high speeds.

How is the Lorentz transformation used in everyday life?

The effects of the Lorentz transformation, such as time dilation and length contraction, are not noticeable in our everyday lives as we do not move at speeds close to the speed of light. However, modern technologies such as GPS and particle accelerators rely on the principles of the Lorentz transformation to function accurately.

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