Objects and stationary observers

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In summary, the conversation is about an object moving at a velocity close to the speed of light and how its measurements change for a stationary observer. The width of the object does not change, but the length approaches zero due to the phenomenon of length contraction. This is described by the formula Lseen by observer = Loriginal * sqrt(1-(v2/c2)). There is also a mention of an expert confirming this understanding of the concept.
  • #1
Dx
Hiya!

An object moves in a direction parallel to its length with a velocity that approaches the velocity of light. The width and length of this object, as measured by a stationary observer is what?

Can anyone gimme more insight on this problem. I am having difficulties understanding just what the hell they are talking about.
does the width approach zero while the length approaches infinity.
Dx [zz)]
 
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  • #2
Only the dimension in which motion is will change, that is length.
It will get smaller by the factor Sqrt(1-(v2/c2)).
So :
Lseen by observer=Loriginal*sqrt(1-(v2/c2))

Of course, if you wait for an expert to confirm this it would be better.
 
  • #3
Ok! Just to make sure I am on the right track then. The width does not change but the length approaches zero because a length of an object is measured to be shorter when its moving relative to the observer than at rest.

Yeah? I think I finally got it.

Dx :wink:
 

1. What is the concept of "Objects and stationary observers"?

The concept of "Objects and stationary observers" refers to the relationship between an object and an observer in a stationary frame of reference. In physics, a stationary observer is someone who is not moving relative to a particular frame of reference, while an object is any physical entity that has mass and takes up space.

2. How does the concept of "Objects and stationary observers" relate to the theory of relativity?

The concept of "Objects and stationary observers" is a fundamental principle of the theory of relativity. According to this theory, the laws of physics should be the same for all observers in a stationary frame of reference, regardless of their relative motion. This means that the measurements and observations made by a stationary observer should be the same as those made by any other stationary observer, regardless of their position or velocity.

3. Can an object be considered stationary in all frames of reference?

No, an object cannot be considered stationary in all frames of reference. According to the theory of relativity, the concept of "stationary" is relative and depends on the observer's frame of reference. Therefore, an object may be considered stationary in one frame of reference, but not in another.

4. How does the concept of "Objects and stationary observers" impact our understanding of motion?

The concept of "Objects and stationary observers" has greatly impacted our understanding of motion by challenging our traditional understanding of space and time. It has led to the development of the theory of relativity, which has revolutionized our understanding of the universe and has been crucial in modern physics and technology.

5. What are some real-world applications of the concept of "Objects and stationary observers"?

The concept of "Objects and stationary observers" has many real-world applications, including GPS technology, satellite communication, and space travel. These technologies rely on the principles of relativity and the concept of "stationary" observers to accurately measure and predict the positions and movements of objects in space.

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