Lorentz Transformation of y-velocity

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the Lorentz transformation of velocity components for a particle moving along the y-axis in a rocket frame. Participants are tasked with transforming the particle's y-velocity and time to the laboratory frame using Lorentz transformation equations.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to apply Lorentz transformation equations to relate the particle's motion in different frames. Some are questioning the accuracy of the relevant equations provided in the textbook and exploring alternative expressions for time and displacement transformations.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the transformations needed to relate the particle's velocity in the rocket frame to that in the laboratory frame. Some participants have noted the lack of clarity in the textbook regarding the direction of relative motion, which has led to differing interpretations of the problem setup.

Contextual Notes

Participants have mentioned that the textbook does not provide sufficient examples or directions, which may contribute to confusion regarding the application of the Lorentz transformation in this context.

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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