Equivalent Trajectories in Relativity: Observer Effects

In summary: If, however, "equivalent" means that the two trajectories are physically identical in all respects, then the answer is "no, they are only equivalent to the described observer". If the difference between the rates of traversal is constant, then the two sets of trajectories are equivalent to any observer. However, if the rates vary, the two sets of trajectories are only equivalent to the described observer. In summary, the two sets of trajectories can be considered equivalent if they only differ by when they change directions and if the spacetime is static. They are equivalent to any observer if the difference between the rates is constant, but only to the described observer if the rates vary.
  • #1
jaketodd
Gold Member
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In relativity, can two sets of trajectories, carried out at different times, be considered equivalent if they only differ by when they change directions as they traverse their sets of trajectories? They traverse the same trajectories. The only difference is the rate at which they traverse the trajectories. Is the answer yes because the observer, during the two times of trajectory traversal, could be going on their own sets of trajectories (different speeds but the same paths for observing each of the two sets of trajectories) that make the two observed trajectories look equivalent? Are the two trajectory sets equivalent to the described observer? ...they are equivalent to the described observer but not to other observers? If the difference between the rate of traversal between the two identical sets of trajectories is a constant, are the two sets of trajectories equivalent to any observer? What if the two sets of trajectories varied in their rate but not by a constant amount...would they be equivalent, and to which observer(s)?

Thanks,

Jake
 
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  • #2
I guess that depends on the definition of "equivalent". If "equivalent" means that the two trajectories take the same form in some coordinate system then I would say that the answer is "yes, provided that the spacetime is static".
 

1. What is the concept of equivalent trajectories in relativity?

In relativity, equivalent trajectories refer to the paths or movements of objects or particles that are observed by different observers. These trajectories may appear different to different observers due to the effects of relativity, but they still represent the same physical motion.

2. How do observer effects impact equivalent trajectories in relativity?

Observer effects refer to the fact that the observation of a physical event can be influenced by the observer's position, motion, and other factors. In relativity, these effects can cause observers to perceive equivalent trajectories differently, leading to differences in their measurements and interpretations of the observed event.

3. Can equivalent trajectories in relativity be measured accurately?

Yes, equivalent trajectories can be measured accurately if the observer takes into account the observer effects and calculates the necessary adjustments to accurately compare their observations with another observer's. This is important in order to understand the true physical nature of the observed event.

4. Are there any real-life examples of equivalent trajectories in relativity?

Yes, a common example is the observation of the path of a moving object from a stationary observer and a moving observer. Due to the effects of relativity, the two observers may perceive the path of the object differently, but they are both equivalent trajectories representing the same physical motion.

5. How does the theory of relativity explain equivalent trajectories?

The theory of relativity, proposed by Albert Einstein, explains equivalent trajectories by taking into account the effects of the observer's perspective and the relative motion between the observer and the observed event. It states that all observers are equally valid and that their measurements and perceptions are relative to their own frame of reference.

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