T: Lorentz Transformation for Length and Relativistic Mass

In summary: In special relativity, the concept of mass is extended to include relativistic mass, which is the mass of an object as measured by an observer in a different frame of reference. The relationship between rest mass and relativistic mass is given by the equation m = γm0, where m is the relativistic mass, m0 is the rest mass, and γ is the Lorentz factor (which depends on the relative speed between the two frames).In summary, the Lorentz transformation can be used to calculate the speed at which your length along the direction of motion is seen to decrease by a factor of 2. The
  • #1
kathykoo9
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Using the Lorentz transformation, at what speed relative to speed of light c must you travel so that your length along the direction of motion is seen to decrease by a factor of 2? For this speed, hwo much would your mass be increased?

Please show steps, I'm confused with this question!
 
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  • #2
first of all my dear friend, this is the wrong forum...

second, show us what you have tried so far - otherwise it is pointless and there is always a suspicion that this is homework.
 
  • #3
kathykoo9 said:
Using the Lorentz transformation, at what speed relative to speed of light c must you travel so that your length along the direction of motion is seen to decrease by a factor of 2? For this speed, hwo much would your mass be increased?

Please show steps, I'm confused with this question!
Can you write out the Lorentz transformation for distance co-ordinates in two frames whose relative speed is v?

You are moving at speed v relative to an Earth observer, say.

Let one end of your length be at x=0 at time t=0 and let the other end be at x = L at time t=0 in your frame. Use the Lorentz transformation to translate those co-ordinates to the Earth observer's frame.

It is not considered correct to say that the mass increases. It certainly does not increase in your frame. Relativistic (apparent) mass may increase for an Earth observer and this is probably what you are being asked to find. Do you know the relationship between rest mass and relativistic (apparent) mass?

AM
 

Related to T: Lorentz Transformation for Length and Relativistic Mass

What is a Lorentz transformation?

A Lorentz transformation is a mathematical formula used in physics to describe how the measurements of space and time change when viewed from different reference frames. It was developed by Dutch physicist Hendrik Lorentz in the late 19th century and is an essential component of Albert Einstein's theory of special relativity.

Why is the Lorentz transformation important?

The Lorentz transformation is important because it helps us understand the fundamental principles of relativity and how objects move through space and time. It is also used in many practical applications, such as GPS systems, particle accelerators, and spacecraft navigation.

How is the Lorentz transformation calculated?

The Lorentz transformation is a set of equations that involve the speed of light, the relative velocity between two frames of reference, and the measurements of space and time in those frames. The equations can be solved using basic algebra and trigonometry.

What is the difference between a Lorentz transformation and Galilean transformation?

The main difference between a Lorentz transformation and a Galilean transformation is that the former takes into account the constancy of the speed of light, while the latter assumes that the speed of light is infinite. This makes the Lorentz transformation more accurate and applicable in situations where objects are moving at high speeds.

Can the Lorentz transformation be visualized?

Yes, the Lorentz transformation can be visualized using geometric diagrams called Minkowski diagrams. These diagrams use the axes of space and time to represent different reference frames and show how measurements of space and time change when transitioning from one frame to another.

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