Special Relativity and spaceships

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving two identical spaceships, each 200 meters long in their rest frame, traveling towards each other at a relative velocity of 0.58c. Participants emphasize the importance of understanding length contraction in special relativity to solve the problem. They suggest determining the reference frame where both spaceships are moving at the same speed to find their lengths in that frame. The conversation highlights the necessity of applying the correct equations for transformation to analyze the situation accurately. Overall, the focus is on applying special relativity principles to resolve the length measurement issue.
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Homework Statement


Two identical spaceships,each 200 m long in its rest frame pass one another traveling in opposite directions.According to a passenger in one of the spaceships,the relative velocity of the two spaceships is 0.58c.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


What the length of each spaceship in a reference frame in which both are of equal length?
 
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you need to have a go at the problem yourself, before we can offer advice. think about what equations you need to use.
 
I don't know but it may be length contraction.
 
A "reference frame in which both are of equal length" is one in which the two space ships have the same speed. What would that be?
 
yes. The problem is about length contraction. And as HallsofIvy is saying, you need to work out what is the transform to a frame where both ships are traveling at same speed. Then you can use this to work out what is the length of the ship in this frame.
 
Thank you so much for your advices
 
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