Special Relativity and time dilation

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the time dilation factor between two spaceships traveling at a relative velocity of 1.2x10^8 m/s. The Lorentz Factor formula is applied to determine how much each captain perceives the other's clock ticking more slowly. One participant calculates a time dilation factor of approximately 1.291, while another suggests verifying the calculation for accuracy. It is confirmed that the factor is dimensionless, as it represents a ratio of two times. The conversation emphasizes the importance of careful calculation in understanding special relativity.
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Homework Statement



Two spaceships are traveling with a relative velocity of 1.2x10^8 m/s, both carrying clocks.
According to the captain of each ship, the other captains clock ticks more slowly than his own. By what factor do the clocks disagree?

Homework Equations



1/(1-(v^2/c^2))^1/2

The Attempt at a Solution


The only formula I can think of that brings up the time dilation going on is the Lorenz Factor, as the only given value is the relative velocity of each ship. I interpreted this question as the ships are speeding at a little over 1/3 of the speed of light past each other if they are using each other as a frame of reference, So I simply plugged the velocity (which is relative to each captain, using the other ship as a reference frame) into the equation to get... so the clocks disagree by a factor of 1.291... I am not sure what units I would even place there or if it is just a number with no units.

Is this the correct line of thinking?
 
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Yes, you are right on track and the factor has no units because it is a ratio of two times.
I get a different number for the answer. I'm old and out of practise so you are probably correct, but do run it through again to check.
 
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