Measuring Relativistic Velocities on Earth: A Question

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on measuring relativistic velocities on Earth, emphasizing that Earth is a non-inertial reference frame due to its rotation and orbit. Participants clarify that while Newtonian physics allows for straightforward velocity comparisons, relativistic physics introduces complexities with varying coordinate systems. The consensus is that there is no inherent difficulty in measuring speeds in special relativity compared to Newtonian physics, as both frameworks acknowledge Earth's non-inertial status.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newtonian physics principles
  • Familiarity with special relativity concepts
  • Knowledge of inertial and non-inertial reference frames
  • Basic grasp of coordinate systems in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of non-inertial frames in special relativity
  • Study the mathematical formulation of relativistic velocity transformations
  • Explore practical applications of relativistic physics in modern technology
  • Learn about the effects of Earth's rotation on measurements in physics
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of physics, and anyone interested in the complexities of measuring velocities in relativistic contexts.

johnny_bohnny
Messages
67
Reaction score
0
This question has came up to my mind and I think it really isn't easy as it sounds.

In Newtonian physics we could use the Earth as the basic frame and compare velocities of cars, planes etc. on our planet. But in relativistic physics, things get complicated because, as we are in a non-intertial frame, we may use different coordinate systems and therefore get different relative velocities of things on Earth. So, my questions is, what is the standard or most used way to define velocities wrt to Earth in relativistic physics? Thank you in advance.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
That the Earth is not an inertial reference frame by virtue of its rotation and orbit. This is not unique to special relativity. This is true in Newtonian physics as well. There's no inherent greater difficulty of measuring speeds in special relativity than there is in Newtonian physics.
 

Similar threads

Graduate Velocity Verlet for relativistic simulation
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Undergrad Non-Inertial Relativistic Dynamics
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
High School What if we use a non physical reference point to measure an object's mass?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
High School How far away can a World So Newly Born Be at relativistic velocities?
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
Undergrad Force on Scale in Rocket Scenario: Calculation & Discussion
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
3K
High School Relativistic simultaneity and effects on time
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
956
High School Can Relativistic Effects Alter Thermodynamic Processes in Experiments?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Undergrad Comparing Clock Rates in Accelerated vs Constant Velocity Frames
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
Undergrad Can we deal with relativistic mass once and for all?
  • · Replies 143 ·
5
Replies
143
Views
10K
Undergrad Apparent Violations of Principle of Relativity?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K