Is My Calculation of Lorentz Transformation Correct for Δx and Δt'?

[elevenb]

Homework Statement

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

Hey, I would really appreciate some help with this. I have worked out the Lorentz factor to be 5.025. Am I right to assume that Δx = 200000km, and Δt' = 1.2s and I have to work out Δt and Δx'?

If these are correct I have worked out Δt to be 0.8926 and Δx' to be -3.12(*10^8)? It doesn't seem right..

 

[Simon Bridge]

$\gamma=5.025$ yes.
You have not defined your variables or explained your method so I cannot tell what you hoped to find.

Take a step back and consider - the observer is A, the planets are E and G (saves typing).
A,E,G are in a line ... A saw the flash from E first and from G second ... what is the sequence of events?
Can you construct the timeline in A's reference frame?

 

[elevenb]

$\gamma=5.025$ yes.
You have not defined your variables or explained your method so I cannot tell what you hoped to find.

Take a step back and consider - the observer is A, the planets are E and G (saves typing).
A,E,G are in a line ... A saw the flash from E first and from G second ... what is the sequence of events?
Can you construct the timeline in A's reference frame?

The line is A,G,E no? Well if I go purely by intuition, I would assume that in A's reference frame E fired first, and then G fired in reply. Which would make sense at non relativistic speeds. I just am not sure how I bring the speed of A into it to find out who fired first in E and G's frame of reference. (Which is what I am looking for?)

 

[Simon Bridge]

AGE well done.
You need the order of events in different reference frames.
This is a problem in "simultaniety".
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Relativity_of_simultaneity

Note: in A's reference frame, the GE frame is the one moving.

 

[HalfLostAndSearching]

Hi there,

Thanks for reaching out for help with your homework on special relativity. It looks like you have made some good progress so far by calculating the Lorentz factor and trying to apply it to find Δt and Δx'. However, it's important to keep in mind that the Lorentz factor is only one part of the special relativity equations, and it's important to use all of the relevant equations to find the correct solutions.

In this case, it seems like you are trying to use the equations for time dilation and length contraction, which are both affected by the Lorentz factor. However, it's important to also consider the frame of reference and the relative velocity between the two frames when using these equations.

Without more information about the specific problem and what is being asked, it's difficult for me to provide a more specific response. I would recommend going back to the original problem statement and making sure you understand what is being asked and what information is given. Then, try to identify which equations are relevant and make sure you are using them correctly.

I hope this helps and good luck with your homework! If you have any further questions, feel free to ask for clarification.