Insights Introducing Relativity on Rotated Graph Paper: A Graphical Motivation

Thread starter robphy
Start date Feb 16, 2022
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Graph Motivation Paper Relativity

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The discussion centers on the concept of illustrating relativity through the use of rotated graph paper, emphasizing a non-algebraic motivating argument for understanding time dilation and length contraction. The author references a previous work that established the equality of light-clock diamond areas and provides algebraic proof in a related article. The motivation for the graphical approach is aimed at enhancing comprehension of special relativity concepts. The omitted non-algebraic argument from the earlier draft is now included in the new piece, enriching the educational framework. This approach seeks to make the principles of relativity more accessible to learners.

Feb 16, 2022

robphy

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(based on https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/teaching-sr-without-simultaneity.1011051/post-6588952 and https://physics.stackexchange.com/a/689291/148184 )

In my earlier Insight Spacetime Diagrams of Light Clocks,
I stated without proof that the areas of all light-clock diamonds are equal.
In my article, “Relativity on Rotated Graph Paper”, Am. J. Phys. 84, 344 (2016)
I provided algebraic proof.

In the penultimate draft, I had a non-algebraic motivating argument (which also motivates time dilation and length contraction)
that had to be left out because the article was already too long.
This argument now appears in Introducing relativity on rotated graph paper...

Thread 'Physical Interpretation of Frame Field'

Moderator's note: Spin-off from another thread due to topic change. In the second link referenced, there is a claim about a physical interpretation of frame field. Consider a family of observers whose worldlines fill a region of spacetime. Each of them carries a clock and a set of mutually orthogonal rulers. Each observer points in the (timelike) direction defined by its worldline's tangent at any given event along it. What about the rulers each of them carries ? My interpretation: each...

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