Simple Special relativity question

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around a special relativity problem involving two stellar explosions observed from different reference frames. The astronomer measures the distance between the explosions as 100 light-years (LY), while an alien spacecraft measures it as 120 LY. The confusion arises from the implications of relativistic effects on distance measurement, particularly regarding length contraction. The key takeaway is that the problem emphasizes the importance of reference frames in understanding measurements of space and time in special relativity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of special relativity principles
  • Familiarity with reference frames in physics
  • Knowledge of length contraction and time dilation concepts
  • Basic grasp of light-year as a unit of distance
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of length contraction in special relativity
  • Explore the concept of simultaneity in different reference frames
  • Learn about the Lorentz transformations and their applications
  • Investigate real-world examples of special relativity in astrophysics
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Students of physics, educators teaching special relativity, and anyone interested in the implications of relativistic measurements in astrophysics.

theneedtoknow
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Homework Statement



The star alpha goes nova, 10 years later (in the ref frame of an astornomer observingthe stars), the star beta also explodes. The distance between them according to the same observer is 100LY. An alien spacecraft passing through the galaxy finds that the distance b/w the explosions is 120ly. According to the aliens, what is the time difference between the explotions?


The Attempt at a Solution


I don't really get the question...the 2 explosions are 100ly away in a reference frame in which they're at rest wrt each other. Shouldn't the distance be contracted for a spaceship passin through the galaxy? how can a spaceship moving measure the distance between them as greater than the astronomer's reference frame?
 
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Hi theneedtoknow! :smile:

You're reading too much into this question …

the question doesn't give you any information about what the stars are doing, only the position and time coordinates of two specific events :wink:
 

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