Is it time to "retire" time dilation and length contraction?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the perceived flaws of time dilation (TD) and length contraction (LC) in special relativity, arguing that these concepts are often unobservable and lead to misunderstandings. Participants advocate for a shift towards teaching methods that emphasize the formal derivation of the Lorentz Transform, the use of four-vectors, and the development of formulas for observable phenomena like aberration and Doppler effects. The consensus suggests that focusing on proper time and space-time intervals will provide a clearer understanding of relativity, particularly for beginners.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Lorentz Transform
  • Familiarity with four-vectors, including four-momentum and four-frequency
  • Basic knowledge of space-time intervals and diagrams
  • Concept of proper time in special relativity
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the formal derivation of the Lorentz Transform
  • Learn about four-vectors and their applications in relativity
  • Research space-time intervals and their significance in special relativity
  • Explore the calculations for aberration and Doppler effects in astrophysics
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators in relativity, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of special relativity concepts and their practical applications.

  • #121
valentin mano said:
Flat Spacetime does not mean "inertial frame of reference",which is the initial frame of Special Relativity.

SR was originally formulated in terms of inertial frames, yes, but as DaleSpam pointed out in post #116, in the modern view SR is defined by flat spacetime, including the use of non-inertial frames in flat spacetime.
 
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  • #122
[Moderator's note: edited to fix quote tags.]

PeterDonis said:
Third, why is the lack of tidal forces important in analyzing the twin paradox?

The tidal forces are not important,just the acceleration,that one of the clocks expiriences.It accelerates to near the speed of light,than returns
back to the one,that has not been moved.In SR there are two inertial frames,passing by each other and each frame sees its clock ticking
faster than the other.The same way EPR paradox is not solved in SR.
 
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  • #123
Did you have something to say here, or did you like what Peter said so much that you decided to re-emphasize it?

But seriously, though, Chapter 6 of MTW is entitled Accelerated Observers. The first section in this chapter is entitled "Accelerated Observers can be Analyzed Using Special Relativity"

I think that says it all.

Chet
 
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  • #124
Sorry,I thought I was talking to a layman.English is not my native.
 
  • #125
valentin mano said:
The same way EPR paradox is not solved in SR.

I don't understand what any of this has to do with the EPR paradox. But this whole subthread is getting way off topic.
 
  • #126
The subject has been discussed thoroughly. Thread closed.
 

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