Relativistic contraction factor

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relativistic contraction factor, specifically whether it can be defined as the ratio of the geometric mean to the arithmetic mean of the terms C (the speed of light) and v (velocity). Participants explore the mathematical definitions and implications of the contraction factor in the context of special relativity.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that the relativistic contraction factor is given by the formula ##\sqrt{1-v^2/c^2}##, which equals 1 when ##v=0##.
  • One participant attempts to derive a ratio involving the geometric and arithmetic means of C and v, leading to a simplification that results in the expression for the contraction factor.
  • Another participant points out that the original poster (OP) did not specify ##c\pm v## in their initial question, which may have led to confusion.
  • There is a mention of the OP's desire to delete their post after realizing an error, indicating a potential misunderstanding in their original claim.
  • Participants discuss the possibility of notifying others about the error in the OP's post to avoid further responses.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the interpretation of the original question regarding the contraction factor, with some supporting the standard definition while others explore alternative formulations. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the validity of the OP's initial claim.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the definitions of the means discussed and the context in which the contraction factor is applied. The discussion also reflects a misunderstanding by the OP that is not fully clarified.

south
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TL;DR
Is it correct to state that the relativistic contraction factor is the ratio of the geometric mean to the arithmetic mean of the terms C and v?
Is it correct to state that the relativistic contraction factor is the ratio of the geometric mean to the arithmetic mean of the terms C and v?
 
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south said:
TL;DR Summary: Is it correct to state that the relativistic contraction factor is the ratio of the geometric mean to the arithmetic mean of the terms C and v?

Is it correct to state that the relativistic contraction factor is the ratio of the geometric mean to the arithmetic mean of the terms C and v?
No. The relativistic contraction factor is ##\sqrt{1-v^2/c^2}##. It is for example ##1## for ##v=0##.
 
Sagittarius A-Star said:
No. The relativistic contraction factor is ##\sqrt{1-v^2/c^2}##. It is for example ##1## for ##v=0##.
Thank you very much. Best regards.
 
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Sagittarius A-Star said:
No.
?

For ##c+v## and ##c-v##, the arithmetic mean is
$$\frac{(c+v)+(c−v)}{2}$$
The geometric mean is
$$\sqrt{(v+c)\cdot (v−c)}$$
so I can write the two as a ratio:
$$\frac{\sqrt{(c+v)⋅(c-v)}}{\frac{(c+v)+(c−v)}{2}}$$
which simplifies to
$$\frac{\sqrt{c^2-v^2}}{c}$$
I bring ##c## under the root by squaring it
$$\sqrt{\frac{c^2-v^2)}{c^2}}$$
Then I write the difference with two fractions
$$\sqrt{\frac{c^2}{c^2}-\frac{v^2}{c^2}}$$
the ##c^2## cancel out so i get
$$\sqrt{1−\frac{v^2}{c^2}}=\gamma^{-1}$$
 
Right. Didn't pay attention
 
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south said:
OP immediately wanted to delete the post when he noticed the error and couldn't find the delete option.
I don't think there is one, but you can reply saying "posted in error, please don't waste your time replying" and then report your original post and ask for it to be deleted.
 
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Ibix said:
I don't think there is one, but you can reply saying "posted in error, please don't waste your time replying" and then report your original post and ask for it to be deleted.
Thanks
 

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