Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the Lorentz-Fitzgerald contraction hypothesis and its implications for the classical motion of rigid bodies within the framework of special relativity. Participants explore the definitions and concepts of rigidity, particularly in relation to Born rigidity, and how these relate to the motion of objects at relativistic speeds.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
- Technical explanation
Main Points Raised
- Some participants question whether the Lorentz-Fitzgerald contraction contradicts the classical motion of rigid bodies, with some suggesting it does not.
- Others assert that there is no classically rigid body in relativity, introducing the concept of Born rigidity as relevant to the discussion.
- It is proposed that Born rigidity applies only when proper acceleration is involved, while others challenge this assertion, stating that Born rigid geodesic congruences can exist without acceleration.
- Participants discuss the differences between Born rigid and non-Born rigid congruences of parallel inertial worldlines in Minkowski spacetime, with some claiming that all such congruences are Born rigid.
- There is a contention regarding the definition of a rigid body in special relativity, with some arguing that the classical definition is contradicted by relativity, while others emphasize the relativity of motion and the role of proper acceleration.
- One participant highlights that internal forces in a body are not instantaneous in relativity, which complicates the notion of rigidity, and introduces the technical definition of Born rigidity involving zero expansion and shear in worldlines.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express multiple competing views regarding the nature of rigidity in special relativity, the applicability of Born rigidity, and the implications of the Lorentz-Fitzgerald contraction. The discussion remains unresolved with no clear consensus.
Contextual Notes
Limitations include the dependence on definitions of rigidity and motion, as well as the unresolved conditions under which Born rigidity can be applied. The discussion also touches on the implications of the Herglotz-Noether theorem, which remains unexplored in detail.