How to show that light travels through space, but not time

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on demonstrating that light travels through space but not through time using relativistic equations, specifically the Lorentz factor (γ = 1 / √(1 - [v/c]^2)). The participant expresses uncertainty about how to apply time dilation (t = γ t°) and length contraction (L = γ L°) to prove this concept. They propose comparing time intervals for a particle traveling at various speeds (0.9c, 0.95c, 0.99c, and 0.999c) to an observer's reference frame, highlighting the implications for theoretical particles traveling at the speed of light (c).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Lorentz factor in special relativity
  • Knowledge of time dilation and length contraction equations
  • Familiarity with the concept of mass relativity
  • Basic grasp of the speed of light (c) in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of the Lorentz factor on time dilation at relativistic speeds
  • Explore the concept of simultaneity in different reference frames
  • Investigate the behavior of particles as they approach the speed of light
  • Learn about the theoretical implications of mass-energy equivalence (E = mc²) in relativistic contexts
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Students of physics, educators teaching special relativity, and anyone interested in the fundamental concepts of light and time in the context of Einstein's theories.

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Homework Statement


Use relativistic equations and γ to demonstrate the following:
b) Light travels through space but not in time

Homework Equations


Lorentz factor γ = 1 / √(1 - [v/c]^2)

Time dilation t = γ t°

Length contraction L = γ L°

Mass relativity m = γ m°

E = m c^2

The Attempt at a Solution



To be honest, I'm not exactly sure how to approach this. I don't quite understand the concept behind what the question is really asking for. Furthermore, I don't know how I can use these equations to prove that light does not travel through time.
 
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Consider a particle traveling at a uniform velocity relative to the observer. Compare a fixed time interval t0, perhaps 1 second, in that particle's reference frame to the corresponding time interval in the observer's reference frame. Ie., pretend the particle is carrying a clock that ticks once every second.
How long does the observer have to wait to observe one tick if the particle travels at 0.9c ? At 0.95c? At 0.99c? 0.999c?
Does this behavior continue if we make the fixed unit of time for a single tick smaller? What does this imply about theoretical particles carrying these same clocks that travel at c?
With the formulas you have, you can only make a weak implication.
 
slider142 said:
Consider...
Thank you. I can't quite wrap my head around this, but I think I have a good enough idea to somehow explain this. I'll be sure to ask my teacher when I can.
 

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