Lorentz Transformations vs Galilean Transformation

AI Thread Summary
Galilean transformations are applicable for speeds much less than the speed of light, while Lorentz transformations should be used for relativistic speeds. The confusion arises when results differ between the two methods, as seen in the example where V1 calculated using Galilean transformations does not match the expected outcome. Lorentz transformations provide accurate results for any scenario involving significant fractions of the speed of light, particularly in high-speed contexts like GPS satellites. In everyday situations on Earth, Newtonian physics is often sufficient, but relativistic effects can still influence outcomes in sensitive experiments. Understanding when to apply each transformation is crucial for accurate physics calculations.
Kudox117
Messages
1
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


upload_2017-3-12_21-36-0.png


2. The attempt at a solution
upload_2017-3-12_21-38-52.png


3. Relevant equations

In the first problems of that book i was using the Galilean transformations where

V1 = V2 + V

But if i use that then
V1 = 0.945 - 0.6
V1 = 0.345

Is not the same result, so I am confused.
In this new problems we are using Lorentz transformations.
When i should use Galilean transformations and when to use Lorentz transformations?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Lorentz transformations should always yield you the correct answer, but Galilean transformations are typically accurate for speeds much less than the speed of light. One way to think of it is that anytime you are using units in terms of c, you should be working in terms of Lorentz transformations. I'm not aware of an actual official cutoff point, but any typical speeds you're going to find here on Earth you can use Newtonian physics, with the exception of perhaps objects in orbit such as our GPS satellites.
 
  • Like
Likes Kudox117
TJGilb said:
...any typical speeds you're going to find here on Earth you can use Newtonian physics,
It depends on how sensitive the phenomenom under investigation is to relativistic effects. For example, even though electrons (usually) move slowly through a current carrying wire, a small amount of length contraction causes significant magnetic field to arise.
 
Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'
Starting with the mass considerations #m(t)# is mass of water #M_{c}# mass of container and #M(t)# mass of total system $$M(t) = M_{C} + m(t)$$ $$\Rightarrow \frac{dM(t)}{dt} = \frac{dm(t)}{dt}$$ $$P_i = Mv + u \, dm$$ $$P_f = (M + dm)(v + dv)$$ $$\Delta P = M \, dv + (v - u) \, dm$$ $$F = \frac{dP}{dt} = M \frac{dv}{dt} + (v - u) \frac{dm}{dt}$$ $$F = u \frac{dm}{dt} = \rho A u^2$$ from conservation of momentum , the cannon recoils with the same force which it applies. $$\quad \frac{dm}{dt}...
I was thinking using 2 purple mattress samples, and taping them together, I do want other ideas though, the main guidelines are; Must have a volume LESS than 1600 cubic centimeters, and CAN'T exceed 25 cm in ANY direction. Must be LESS than 1 kg. NO parachutes. NO glue or Tape can touch the egg. MUST be able to take egg out in less than 1 minute. Grade A large eggs will be used.
Back
Top