Special Relativity: Train in Tunnel Paradox Solved

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving the classic train in a tunnel paradox from special relativity, emphasizing the need for specific examples and guidance on spacetime diagrams. Participants suggest that users should first attempt the problem themselves to receive constructive feedback. Recommendations include searching for related concepts like the "barn and pole paradox" and utilizing numerical values to simplify calculations, such as setting the speed of light to 1 and using a train speed of 0.8 to derive the Lorentz factor.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of special relativity concepts, particularly the train in a tunnel paradox.
  • Familiarity with spacetime diagrams and their interpretation.
  • Basic knowledge of Lorentz transformations and the gamma factor.
  • Ability to perform arithmetic with units of light-seconds and seconds.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the "barn and pole paradox" for additional examples of relativistic effects.
  • Study the derivation and application of the Lorentz factor in special relativity.
  • Learn how to construct and interpret spacetime diagrams for various scenarios.
  • Explore textbooks and resources that provide solved examples of special relativity problems.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching special relativity, and anyone interested in understanding relativistic paradoxes and their resolutions.

Agalal1
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Hello, I was wondering if anyone could set up and solve a classic train in a tunnel paradox from special relativity with unique values for multiple observers including time space diagrams. Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
That's not what PF is for. Once you've made an attempt at it we will provide help and feedback. But we aren't here to do your work for you.
 
Ibix said:
That's not what PF is for. Once you've made an attempt at it we will provide help and feedback. But we aren't here to do your work for you.
well i was hoping for different examples i can learn from, would be great if anyone can link me a pdf or a book with examples and answers with space time diagrams
 
Agalal1 said:
well i was hoping for different examples i can learn from, would be great if anyone can link me a pdf or a book with examples and answers with space time diagrams

You'd be better to post what level your physics and maths are and how you are currently learning SR. There are lots of textbooks out there and many threads of recommendations on here.
 
Agalal1 said:
classic train in a tunnel paradox from special relativity

Which is not an "A" level question. Thread level changed to "I".
 
Agalal1 said:
classic train in a tunnel paradox
You might also try searching via e.g. Google for "barn and pole paradox." I would be surprised if this does not find some numeric examples.
 
If you choose to measure distances in light-seconds and time in seconds the speed of light will come out to be 1. Now you can take the speed of the train to be ##\frac{4}{5}=.8## so the ##\gamma## factor will come out ##\frac{5}{3}## and the length of the train to be one light-second.

With these numeric values you'll find that the arithmetic comes out to be really easy.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
929
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 26 ·
Replies
26
Views
4K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 60 ·
3
Replies
60
Views
5K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 32 ·
2
Replies
32
Views
3K
  • · Replies 54 ·
2
Replies
54
Views
4K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
735
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K