How Does Relativity Affect the Perception of Time Between Supernovae?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the perception of time between two supernovae as observed by aliens traveling at relativistic speeds. The initial calculations using Lorentz Transformations indicated a time difference of -24 years, suggesting a misunderstanding of the reference frame. The correct approach involved utilizing the spacetime interval, which clarifies the relationship between time and distance in relativistic contexts. This highlights the importance of understanding relativistic effects when analyzing astronomical events.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lorentz Transformations in special relativity
  • Familiarity with the concept of spacetime intervals
  • Basic knowledge of supernovae and their observational implications
  • Concepts of reference frames in physics
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  • Study the implications of spacetime intervals in special relativity
  • Learn about the applications of Lorentz Transformations in various scenarios
  • Research the observational techniques used in measuring astronomical events like supernovae
  • Explore the effects of relativistic speeds on time perception and measurement
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Astronomers, physicists, and students of relativity who are interested in the effects of relativistic speeds on time perception and the analysis of astronomical phenomena.

doublemint
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1. The star Alpha goes supernova. Then ten years later and 100 light years away, star beta goes supernova. Aliens passing by observes that the explosions occur 120 light years away. According to them, what is the time between the explosions?


2. So I think I am supposed to used the Lorentz Transformations.
x'=\gamma(x-vt) and x=\gamma(x'+vt')
Then I solved for v in both equations since we do not know the speed at which the aliens are traveling at. I equate them together to get t'
\gammat'=[\gammat(x-\gammax')]/(\gammax-x')
I solved for it and got -24 years..
So does it mean that it took 24 years inbetween explosions according to the aliens reference frame?

Thank You

DoubleMint
 
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Nvm I've got it! I had to use the spacetime interval..obviously XD
 

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