Relativity physics homework problem

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion focuses on a relativity physics homework problem involving a spaceship traveling to a Galactic Base 8 light years away. To determine the required speed of the spaceship for a round trip that coincides with the captain's 30th birthday, participants are instructed to use the Lorentz transformation formula for time and the concept of relativistic time dilation. The key equation involves setting the time experienced on Earth equal to the distance traveled divided by velocity, specifically 8 light years/v. The discussion emphasizes the importance of the Lorentz factor in calculating the effects of time dilation during the trip.

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  • Understanding of Lorentz transformation in special relativity
  • Knowledge of relativistic time dilation concepts
  • Familiarity with basic physics equations involving velocity and distance
  • Ability to perform algebraic manipulations to solve equations
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  • Learn how to apply the Lorentz transformation formula in practical problems
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  • Investigate the relationship between velocity, time, and distance in special relativity
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A 1000m long and 200m wide (when at rest) spaceship equipped with a chronometer is sent on a roundtrip
to their Galactic Base, 8 light years away.
(a) Astronauts start the trip after celebrating their captains 29th birthday and they want to make a round
trip and return to Earth on the eve of the captains 30th birthday. The ship travels with a constant velocity.
Calculate the required speed of the spaceship.
(b) According to the clocks on Earth, how long does this trip take?


Need help with the process to follow for (a)
 
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Use the Lorentz tranformation formula for time to determine, in terms of the velocity relative to earth, v, how much "earth time" will be required if the trip to one year in "ship's time". Set that equal to 8 lightyears/v and solve the equation for v.
 


You'll want to look at relativistic time dilation, according to the Lorentz factor. Once you've looked at this, have a go at a calculation.

EDIT: What HallsofIvy said.

V
 

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