Assume Classical Ideas of Space and Time (Ether)

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the observed speed of a lightwave on Earth, specifically addressing part C of problem 1.9 from a homework assignment. The correct formula to use is derived from the Pythagorean Theorem, expressed as √(c² + v²), where c represents the speed of light and v denotes the speed of the observer. The confusion regarding the minus sign is clarified; it is unnecessary as the calculation involves magnitudes of vectors rather than their directional components.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Pythagorean Theorem
  • Basic knowledge of vector mathematics
  • Familiarity with the concept of light speed (c)
  • Awareness of relative motion in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the Pythagorean Theorem in physics problems
  • Learn about vector addition and its implications in motion
  • Explore the principles of special relativity and how they relate to light speed
  • Investigate the effects of relative motion on observed phenomena in physics
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying classical mechanics and special relativity, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to light speed and vector mathematics.

knowLittle
Messages
307
Reaction score
3

Homework Statement


My question is part C of problem 1.9:
http://facultyfiles.deanza.edu/gems/lunaeduardo/4DHW.PDF

Homework Equations


Pythagorean Theorem?

The Attempt at a Solution


I have c vector of lightwave going upwards and v going rightwards forming a right angle with the other vector.
Now, I need to find the observed speed of the lightwave on earth.
I would do √(c^2 + v^2), since the particles are being separated by the hypotenuse, but I think it's wrong I have seen some answers online that involve a minus sign for some reason.

Could someone elucidate?
Thank you.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The answer to this question is the Pythagorean Theorem. The formula for the observed speed of the lightwave on Earth is c2 + v2, where c is the speed of light and v is the speed of the observer relative to the source. The minus sign is not needed because it is a vector equation, which means that the magnitude of the vectors is being calculated, not their direction.
 

Similar threads

Difficulty with Mathematical Methods of Classical Mechanics
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
5K
Harmonic Oscillator and Volume of Unit Cell in Phase Space
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
Classical Relativity and the Speed of Light
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Future-pointing and past-pointing time-like vectors
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
6K
Graduate Do we have "Newtonian space-time" in classical physics?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
How Does Acceleration Transform in Special Relativity?
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
5K
Undergrad Can time be another basis vector under Galilean relativity?
  • · Replies 146 ·
5
Replies
146
Views
12K
How do you find the killing vectors for Minkowski space?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Undergrad Cosmological principle about space and time
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
2K
Can Two Future-Pointing Null Vectors Sum to a Time-Like Vector?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
5K