Lorentz Transformation of y-velocity

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of Lorentz transformation equations to derive the x-component and y-component of a particle's velocity in the laboratory frame. The relevant equations are identified as Vx = V_rel and Vy = Vy'√(1 - V_rel²). The participant highlights deficiencies in the textbook, particularly the lack of clarity regarding the direction of the rocket's motion, which is assumed to be along the x-axis. The correct transformations for Δy and Δt are established, emphasizing the need for the relativistic Velocity Addition Theorem to accurately calculate the particle's velocity relative to the laboratory frame.

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  • Understanding of Lorentz transformation equations
  • Familiarity with relativistic velocity addition
  • Knowledge of uniform motion in physics
  • Basic grasp of special relativity concepts
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  • Study the derivation of Lorentz transformation equations in detail
  • Learn about the relativistic Velocity Addition Theorem
  • Explore examples of particle motion in different reference frames
  • Review special relativity principles and their applications in physics
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on special relativity, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to Lorentz transformations and velocity calculations in different frames of reference.

muffinbottoms
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Homework Statement



A Particle moves with uniform speed V'y = Δy'/Δt' along the y'-axis of the rocket frame. Transform Δy' and Δt' to laboratory displacements Δx, Δy, and Δt using the Lorentz transformation equations. Show that the x-component and the y-component of the velocity of this particle in the laboratory frame are given by the expressions ... (under relevant equations)

Homework Equations



Vx = V rel
Vy = Vy'(1-Vrel^2)^.5


The Attempt at a Solution



Okay so the textbook i got this problem from is lacking in both directions and example problems. This is what I have so far..

x = x' because the particle is moving along the y-axis
z=z'

Δt = vγy' + γt
Δx = x'
Δy= γy' + Vγt'
 
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or is it that
t' = -Vrelγy+γt = γ(-Vrel(y)+t)
y' = γy-Vrelγt = γ(y-Vrel(t))

how should i continue?
 
muffinbottoms said:

Homework Statement



A Particle moves with uniform speed V'y = Δy'/Δt' along the y'-axis of the rocket frame. Transform Δy' and Δt' to laboratory displacements Δx, Δy, and Δt using the Lorentz transformation equations. Show that the x-component and the y-component of the velocity of this particle in the laboratory frame are given by the expressions ... (under relevant equations)

Homework Equations



Vx = V rel
Vy = Vy'(1-Vrel^2)^.5


The Attempt at a Solution



Okay so the textbook i got this problem from is lacking in both directions and example problems. This is what I have so far..

x = x' because the particle is moving along the y-axis
z=z'

Δt = vγy' + γt
Δx = x'
Δy= γy' + Vγt'

The relevant equations are not correct. If the particle is moving relative to the rocket, and the rocket is moving relative to the laboratory, then you have to use the relativistic Velocity Addition Theorem to get the velocity of the particle relative to the laboratory.
 
I was able to get the given expressions by assuming that the rocket moves only along the x-axis in the laboratory frame with relative speed v_rel, as suggested by v_x = v_rel, though the fault is on the book for not mentioning that specifically, thus forcing you to assume that the relative velocity could be in any direction.
 

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