Lorentz Contraction: Gaining Mass & Shrinking

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concepts of Lorentz contraction and relativistic mass in modern physics. It establishes that length contraction occurs at all non-zero speeds, while relativistic mass is a frame-dependent quantity that does not increase due to velocity. The conversation emphasizes the importance of reference frames in measuring both length and mass, clarifying that the perceived paradox of gaining mass while shrinking is resolved through understanding these frame-dependent measurements.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lorentz contraction
  • Familiarity with relativistic mass
  • Knowledge of reference frames in physics
  • Basic principles of modern physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "Lorentz transformation equations" to understand the mathematical framework
  • Explore "relativistic mass vs. invariant mass" to clarify terminology
  • Study "reference frame analysis in special relativity" for practical applications
  • Investigate "length contraction experiments" to see real-world implications
USEFUL FOR

Students of modern physics, educators teaching special relativity, and anyone interested in the implications of relativistic effects on mass and length measurements.

Swankie
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Hi all, modern physics student here. If the Lorentz contraction occurs at relativistic speeds, how does it gain mass yet get shorter?

The best I can think of is that it has to depend in which reference frame one is in at the time. Does anyone know any useful links where I can read about this?
 
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You're right about the dependence on a reference frame. This forum is a good place to find information on this subject. Do a search for "mass" in the title and pick the threads that address your question. Click on this link to see the result of this search:

https://www.physicsforums.com/search.php?searchid=3078794
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Swankie said:
If the Lorentz contraction occurs at relativistic speeds,

Length contraction occurs at ALL non-zero speeds.

Swankie said:
how does it gain mass

An object does NOT gain mass due to velocity. It gains "relativistic mass," but relativistic mass is a virtually useless quantity which physicists (for that reason) don't use anymore.

Swankie said:
yet get shorter?

Why does this seem paradoxical to you? Why do you think that the measured length of an object would have any effect on its mass?

Swankie said:
The best I can think of is that it has to depend in which reference frame one is in at the time.

Well yes, length and relativistic mass are certainly frame-dependent quantities. You could, for example, measure an object from a reference frame in which it is at rest. You could also measure the same object from a reference frame in which it has a velocity of 99.999% the speed of light. Obviously the two measurements will differ.
 
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