Solving for Y: A Spacecraft's Speed at 0.4 of Light

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the time dilation factor, denoted as "y" or \(\gamma\), for a spaceship traveling at 0.4 times the speed of light. Participants are exploring the implications of this calculation and addressing issues related to the use of a calculator for this purpose.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the formula for time dilation and question the validity of the calculated value of y. There are inquiries about the meaning of y and its expected value at the given speed. Some participants express confusion regarding calculator errors and seek clarification on the units of time dilation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants raising questions about the calculation process and the interpretation of results. Some have provided insights into the nature of time dilation, while others are troubleshooting technical issues with their calculators. There is no explicit consensus on the correct value of y, but there is a general understanding that it should be close to 1 for the given speed.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of homework guidelines, which may limit the amount of assistance they can receive. There is also a mention of potential calculator malfunctions affecting the accuracy of results.

Stratosphere
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Homework Statement


A spaceship is going at .4 the speed of light, find its y value.


Homework Equations


i think your suppose to use y=1/[tex]\sqrt{}1-(v/c)^2[/tex]


The Attempt at a Solution


I got y=7.64*10^11
I also see a chart that says at .4 of c the y should only equal abought 1.
My calculator was also say " Domain Error" I don't know why. Also what exactly does y stand for?
 
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What units do you measure time dialtion in?
 
Stratosphere said:
What units do you measure time dialtion in?

It's dimensionless. It's a ratio of two times.
 
Yes, your answer will be very close to 1. Time dilation doesn't get very large until you get very close to c.
 
Why do i keep getting Domain error.
 
Stratosphere said:
Why do i keep getting Domain error.

Can you show us explicitly what you type or key in?
 
Never mind I think my calculator was malfunctioning, I just got it to work and got the right answer.
 

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