Special relativity and Lorentz factor problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the calculation of the spatial separation, ∆x', between two particles moving with the same velocity u_x in different reference frames, S and S'. The Lorentz factor, γ (gamma), is crucial in transforming the spatial coordinates between these frames. The participants clarify that simultaneous events in frame S' do not correspond to simultaneous events in frame S due to the relativity of simultaneity. The correct approach involves using the equations X1=x0+ut1 and X2=x0+L+ut2 to derive the proper transformation for ∆x'.

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  • Understanding of special relativity principles
  • Familiarity with Lorentz transformations
  • Knowledge of the Lorentz factor (γ)
  • Basic concepts of reference frames in physics
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  • Study Lorentz transformations in detail
  • Learn about the relativity of simultaneity
  • Explore practical applications of the Lorentz factor in physics problems
  • Review examples of particle motion in different inertial frames
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Students of physics, particularly those studying special relativity, educators teaching relativity concepts, and anyone interested in understanding the implications of Lorentz transformations on particle dynamics.

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Homework Statement



There are 2 particles(1,2) separated ∆x=L moving with the same velocity u_x in frame of reference S , there's an other reference S' moving at v .
I have to calculate ∆x'. GAMMA(LORENTZ'S FACTOR)

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I have done x1=0 when t=0
So for particle 1 x1=ut
Particle 2 x2=L+ut
So ∆x=L=gamma(∆x') , and it's not correct
The solution I have got from class is
X1=x0+ut1
X2=x0+L+ut2
So when I measure the distance between them in S' the solution is completely different, the thing I don't understand is , how t2=\t1 and not t2=t1.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You measure ##\Delta x'## by measuring the difference in ##x'## at the same ##t'##, i.e., simultaneous events in ##S'##. Since the particles are separated, relativity of simultaneity comes into play and what is simultaneous in ##S'## is not simultaneous in ##S##, i.e., you will have different ##t## coordinates if you have the same ##t'## coordinate.
 

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