Speed of Light Paradox: What Did I Miss?

Thread starter bgq
Start date Oct 21, 2012
Tags

Light Paradox Speed Speed of light

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of measuring the speed of light in a moving train and how it differs from the measurement of a stationary observer. It is explained that the theory of special relativity takes into account the relativity of simultaneity and the contraction of the tube, but also mentions that the motion of the tube affects the time it takes for the light to travel. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the distance traveled by the light as measured by the stationary observer.

Nov 10, 2012

harrylin

randyu said:

thanks harrylin, what I was thinking is from post #1, d=2Lo/Y and t=YTo which gave c as "divided by gamma squared".
This was wrong from the beginning, the length in the stationary frame is longer than the moving length Lo as you state, confusing because each is moving relative to the other. And also the time is YTo in the "stationary" frame, longer.
I guess this all makes sense, I just get confused about time dilation/expansion using t in different ways it seems to me, sometime an interval, sometimes ticks. Oh well, will come together sooner or later.
Thanks.

That's why it is necessary to make sketches. :tongue2:
Cheers

<h2>1. What is the speed of light paradox?</h2><p>The speed of light paradox is a thought experiment that questions our understanding of the speed of light. It suggests that if an observer is traveling at the speed of light, time would stand still for them, and they would not experience the passage of time. This goes against our understanding of time and the laws of physics.</p><h2>2. How does the speed of light paradox challenge our understanding of time?</h2><p>The speed of light paradox challenges our understanding of time because it suggests that time can be relative and can be affected by the speed of an observer. This goes against the concept of time being constant and universal.</p><h2>3. What is the significance of the speed of light paradox in physics?</h2><p>The speed of light paradox is significant in physics because it highlights the limitations of our current understanding of the universe. It also challenges us to think outside the box and explore new theories and concepts to explain the behavior of light and time.</p><h2>4. How do scientists explain the speed of light paradox?</h2><p>Scientists explain the speed of light paradox using Einstein's theory of relativity. This theory states that the laws of physics are the same for all observers, regardless of their relative motion. It also suggests that time and space are relative and can be affected by the speed of an observer.</p><h2>5. Can the speed of light paradox be resolved?</h2><p>Currently, there is no definitive answer to the speed of light paradox. However, scientists continue to explore and research different theories and concepts to try to resolve this paradox. It is possible that with further advancements in technology and understanding, we may one day have a better understanding of the speed of light and its paradox.</p>

1. What is the speed of light paradox?

The speed of light paradox is a thought experiment that questions our understanding of the speed of light. It suggests that if an observer is traveling at the speed of light, time would stand still for them, and they would not experience the passage of time. This goes against our understanding of time and the laws of physics.

2. How does the speed of light paradox challenge our understanding of time?

The speed of light paradox challenges our understanding of time because it suggests that time can be relative and can be affected by the speed of an observer. This goes against the concept of time being constant and universal.

3. What is the significance of the speed of light paradox in physics?

The speed of light paradox is significant in physics because it highlights the limitations of our current understanding of the universe. It also challenges us to think outside the box and explore new theories and concepts to explain the behavior of light and time.

4. How do scientists explain the speed of light paradox?

Scientists explain the speed of light paradox using Einstein's theory of relativity. This theory states that the laws of physics are the same for all observers, regardless of their relative motion. It also suggests that time and space are relative and can be affected by the speed of an observer.

5. Can the speed of light paradox be resolved?

Currently, there is no definitive answer to the speed of light paradox. However, scientists continue to explore and research different theories and concepts to try to resolve this paradox. It is possible that with further advancements in technology and understanding, we may one day have a better understanding of the speed of light and its paradox.