Understanding Lorentz Transformations: The Role of \bold \tau

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    Lorentz Relativity
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In the context of Lorentz Transformations, the variable τ represents the proper time interval, which is the time measured in the local rest frame of an object. Understanding τ is crucial for accurately applying the transformations, particularly when dealing with time. While deriving the Lorentz Transformation for spatial coordinates (x) is straightforward, many students find the derivation for time more challenging. This complexity arises from the interplay between time and relative motion in special relativity. Mastering these concepts is essential for a comprehensive understanding of relativistic physics.
Gyroscope
It's just a simple question.
In the Lorentz Transformations what means the variable \bold \tau?

Thanks, I am deducing this transformations for coordinates, but now I come for this \bold \tau and I cannot deduce if I don't know what it is.
 
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Gyroscope said:
It's just a simple question.
In the Lorentz Transformations what means the variable \bold \tau?
In principle a variable can stand for anything, but it is conventional in relativity for it to stand for the proper time interval, that is the time interval as measured in the local restframe.
 
Yes, it stands for time.
Is it too difficult for an high school student to derive the Lorentz Transformation for time? For x it was very easy. But I am having problems with time.
 

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