Spacetime diagram based question.

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around a spacetime diagram problem involving a spaceship moving at a speed of ß=4/5. The participant successfully calculated the total round trip time for light to return to the rear of the ship as 10/3 seconds using the equation ∆t=y (∆t' + ß∆x'). The participant also derived the time difference between the front and rear clocks of the ship as -4/3 seconds. The calculations utilize proper time and Lorentz transformations to analyze the effects of relativistic speeds on time perception.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of special relativity concepts, specifically time dilation and simultaneity.
  • Familiarity with Lorentz transformations and their applications.
  • Basic knowledge of spacetime diagrams and their interpretation.
  • Proficiency in algebra and solving equations involving variables.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and implications of Lorentz transformations in detail.
  • Explore the concept of simultaneity in special relativity and its effects on moving observers.
  • Learn how to construct and interpret spacetime diagrams for various scenarios.
  • Investigate the relationship between proper time and coordinate time in relativistic contexts.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators in relativity, and anyone interested in understanding the implications of special relativity on time and simultaneity in moving frames of reference.

ronsonol
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Homework Statement


A Spaceship is moving with speed ß=4/5.

Its length at rest is 1sec. A light is turned on at the rear of the ship, reflected back from a mirror at the front.
a.) How long does an observer at rest say it takes for the light to return to the rear of the ship (total round trip time)?
b.) How long did the light take to go from the rear to the front?
c.) How long did the light take to go from the front to rear?
d.) Use the results above to determine how far out of synchronization an observer at rest says the ship's front and rear clocks are.

∆T = 2s (proper time = 2seconds) light shining from rear to front back to rear.
y=5/3

Homework Equations



∆t=y (∆t' +ß∆x')
∆T - ∆t≈=-0.5v^2∆t

The Attempt at a Solution



For Part A I used the 1st equation:
∆t = (5/3)(2s + (4/5)(0)) = 10/3s
I'm not sure if I set it up correctly, but I got it right.

I am still trying to figure out part B and part C and have attached a diagram.

Part D I'm not sure exactly how I got the correct answer but I used the 2nd equation to estimate the difference:
2-(10/3) = -4/3s
 

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Since this thread was moved from the Advanced to Introductory section, I thought it would be appropriate to bump, hopefully someone can offer a hint for me to continue. Thanks in advance.
 

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