- #61
JM
- 231
- 0
ghwellsjr said:
Contradiction in Relativistic Simultaneity in Taylor-Wheeler Spacetime Physics?
- Thread starter GregAshmore
- Start date
Click For Summary
The discussion centers on the interpretation of simultaneity in Taylor and Wheeler's Spacetime Physics, particularly regarding an observer on a moving train witnessing two lightning strikes. It argues that the narrative in figure 3-1 contradicts earlier text by suggesting that the observer's perception of the strikes is flawed due to light travel time. The claim that the observer sees the front flash first is contested, emphasizing that simultaneity is frame-dependent and that the strikes are simultaneous for the embankment observer but not necessarily for the train observer. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding how different frames of reference affect the perception of events in relativity. Ultimately, the conclusion is that while each observer perceives events differently, the laws of physics remain consistent across frames.