Running real fast while holding a mirror

In summary: Sweaty, because it is really hard to run that fast. :smile:In summary, if you're running and looking at your own imagine in a mirror you're holding in your hand, how would the image look like? what if you were running at .99c ? and why?
  • #1
Moneer81
159
2
Hello

if you're running and looking at your own imagine in a mirror you're holding in your hand, how would the image look like? what if you were running at .99c ? and why?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Moneer81 said:
Hello

if you're running and looking at your own imagine in a mirror you're holding in your hand, how would the image look like? what if you were running at .99c ? and why?

It would simply look like you. Although you're running, if you're keeping a constant velocity, then according to the special principle of relativity, you're perfectly justified in calling yourself "at rest". Therefore, the image you will see in the mirror will be identical to the image you will see if you are not running.
 
  • #3
Moneer81 said:
Hello

if you're running and looking at your own imagine in a mirror you're holding in your hand, how would the image look like? what if you were running at .99c ? and why?
It would be the exact same thing as if you were at rest since in that frame you are. This was one of the thought experiments used by Einstein. He used to wonder what he'd see in his bicycle mirror if he was moving at the speed of light.

Pete
 
  • #4
Yep, to 'stationary' observers you might look like a funhouse mirror as you run by, but your mirror will never lie to you.
 
  • #5
What if you were running at a stationary mirror? I know the rest of the world would appear shrunk by a factor of 1/[tex]\gamma[/tex] in a direction parallel to your motion but what about the image in the mirror?
 
  • #6
Moneer81 said:
if you're running and looking at your own imagine in a mirror you're holding in your hand, how would the image look like? what if you were running at .99c ? and why?
Sweaty, because it is really hard to run that fast. :smile:
 
  • #7
Underdoped said:
What if you were running at a stationary mirror? I know the rest of the world would appear shrunk by a factor of 1/[tex]\gamma[/tex] in a direction parallel to your motion but what about the image in the mirror?
Your picture in the mirror approaching you at almost c would be extremely blue shifted beyond visible range. And you would "see" your actions delayed by a time offset but executed much faster. So that just before you collide with the mirror, the picture in it almost catches up with your actions.

http://www.spacetimetravel.org has a lot of such simulations.

Also note that the effects I describe above are not really "relativistic". It is simple Doppler-effect and signal delay.
 
Last edited:
  • #8
If I was running my image would look horrible.
 

What is the purpose of running real fast while holding a mirror?

The purpose of running real fast while holding a mirror is to create a visual illusion of movement and speed. The mirror reflects the surroundings, making it appear as if the person is moving faster than they actually are.

Does running real fast while holding a mirror have any scientific benefits?

There is no scientific evidence to support any benefits of running real fast while holding a mirror. However, it can be a fun and creative way to exercise and experiment with visual perception.

Is there a specific technique to running real fast while holding a mirror?

There is no specific technique, but it is important to hold the mirror securely and at a slight angle to avoid blinding yourself with the reflection of the sun. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and not run into any objects or people.

Can anyone do running real fast while holding a mirror?

Yes, anyone can do it as long as they are physically able to run and hold a mirror. However, it is important to take safety precautions and start slow to avoid any accidents.

Are there any risks involved with running real fast while holding a mirror?

The main risk is the potential for accidents if the person is not aware of their surroundings or if they lose their grip on the mirror. It is also important to avoid looking directly into the sun or any other bright light source to avoid damaging the eyes.

Similar threads

Replies
27
Views
2K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
23
Views
970
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
2
Views
996
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
823
  • Other Physics Topics
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
27
Views
4K
  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
172
Views
14K
Back
Top