How Do Lorentz Transformations Confirm a Rocket's Motion in Special Relativity?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of Lorentz transformations to demonstrate the motion of a rocket frame moving at speed v in the x direction relative to an unprimed frame. Key equations include ct' = γct - βγx and x' = γx - βγct, which define the relationship between the two frames. Participants express confusion regarding the interpretation of the question and the role of the provided equations. Clarification is sought on whether the task involves determining the values of γ and β in relation to v.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lorentz transformations in special relativity
  • Familiarity with the concepts of time dilation and length contraction
  • Knowledge of the variables involved: x, x', t, t', y, y', z, z'
  • Basic grasp of the terms γ (Lorentz factor) and β (velocity as a fraction of the speed of light)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of Lorentz transformations in special relativity
  • Learn how to calculate the Lorentz factor γ for different velocities
  • Explore practical applications of Lorentz transformations in physics problems
  • Investigate the implications of time dilation and length contraction in moving frames
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying special relativity, educators teaching the concepts of motion in different reference frames, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of Lorentz transformations and their applications.

Onias
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Homework Statement


Show that the primed frame corresponds to a 'rocket' frame moving at speed v in the x direction relative to the unprimed frame.

Variables: x, x', t, t', y, y', z, z'


Homework Equations


ct' = γct - βγx
x' = γx - βγct
y' = y
z' = z


The Attempt at a Solution


None, I'm not sure what the question is asking of me!
 
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Onias said:
Show that the primed frame corresponds to a 'rocket' frame moving at speed v in the x direction relative to the unprimed frame.

Variables: x, x', t, t', y, y', z, z'

ct' = γct - βγx
x' = γx - βγct
y' = y
z' = z

I'm not sure what the question is asking of me!

Hi Onias ! Welcome to PF! :smile:

(are those equations part of the question?)

I'm not sure what the question is asking of you, either :confused:

I'd have thought that those equations are the definition of the new frame …

unless they're asking you to say what v is, in terms of γ and β
 

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