Can't Solve the Relativity Problem: Seeking Help

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenge of understanding the frequency ratio of light signals between two observers in the context of relativity, specifically using the expression from C. Schiller's text. The formula provided is λrs = γ(1 - (v/c)cos θr), where observer S moves at velocity v relative to observer R. The original poster seeks assistance in reproducing this assertion and references the Motion Mountain volume II text for further derivation, particularly section 4.2.3 and problem 11 in chapter 4, which involve four-vectors. Acknowledgment of familiarity with four-vectors indicates a willingness to deepen understanding of this complex topic.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of special relativity concepts
  • Familiarity with four-vectors
  • Knowledge of light signal behavior in different reference frames
  • Basic calculus skills for derivation and problem-solving
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of frequency ratios in special relativity using four-vectors
  • Review section 4.2.3 of the Motion Mountain volume II text
  • Explore problem 11 in chapter 4 of C. Schiller's text for practical applications
  • Learn about Lorentz transformations and their implications on light signals
USEFUL FOR

Students and enthusiasts of physics, particularly those studying relativity, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to frequency ratios and four-vectors in light signal analysis.

Jilvin
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I was reading C. Schiller's text on relativity and he gives an expression for the ratio frequencies of two observers (one a sender and one a receiver). *[Oh, and if you think that my description of the problem is unclear, I am talking about the expression on page 30 of the Motion Mountain volume II text]*

Observer S is moving at a velocity v with respect to observer R, and sends a light signal at an angle [tex]\theta_{s}[/tex]. Observer R receives the signal at an angle [tex]\theta_{r}[/tex]. The expression given for the ratio of the two wavelengths is:

[tex]\lambda_{r}[/tex]/[tex]\lambda_{s}[/tex]=[tex]\gamma[/tex](1-(v/c)cos [tex]\theta_{r}[/tex])

I have tried to reproduce this assertion independently, but can't! Someone more skilled please help.
 
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You can find a derivation in my book:
http://www.lightandmatter.com/genrel/
See section 4.2.3 for the 1-dimensional case, and the solution in the back of the book for problem 11 in ch. 4 for the generalization to more than one spatial dimensions. This uses four-vectors. If you aren't comfortable with four-vectors, I'm sure it can be done, but it probably becomes a more cumbersome calculation.
 
Thank you. I am slightly familiar with four-vectors but i'll need some touching up. However, I am willing to do this so this reference is satisfactory for now.

OFF TOPIC: I used you calculus book for self-study last year by the way. I only looked at it for 2 months prior to the AP Calc AB test and I managed to score a 4. So thanks for your material!
 

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