Special relativity theory train and mosquito

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem in special relativity involving a train moving along the x-axis and a mosquito flying inside it. Participants are tasked with writing the mosquito's 4-speed components in different reference frames and exploring the transformation of these components using 4-vector component transformation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the components of the mosquito's speed in the train's coordinate system and question the application of Lorentz transformations to 4-vectors. There is uncertainty about how to properly apply transformation formulas and whether certain components can be directly substituted into the Lorentz formula.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the use of Lorentz transformations for 4-vectors. Some guidance has been provided regarding the applicability of these transformations, but there remains a lack of consensus on the specific steps to take.

Contextual Notes

Participants express confusion regarding the distinction between transformations for coordinates and time versus those applicable to 4-vectors. There is also mention of potential adjustments needed in notation when referencing external resources.

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Homework Statement


Train is moving along the x-axis with speed v relative to platform, inside the train mosquito is flying with 3D speed v0.
1) Write mosquito s 4-speed components with respect to train coordinate system.
2) Using 4-vector component transformation write mosquito's 4-speed components with respect to platform,by transforming 4-vector speed components with respect to train.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


1) This is quite easy,the speed components with respect to train coordinate system :
(icγ,v0xγ,v0yγ,v0zγ),where γ=1/[itex]\sqrt{1-v_0^2/c^2}[/itex]
2) Here I Think i could use Lorenc transformation,but i have to use 4-vector component transformation which i think can't be used in Lorenc transform.
Some help here,please ?
 
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Hello.

prehisto said:
2) Here I Think i could use Lorenc transformation,but i have to use 4-vector component transformation which i think can't be used in Lorenc transform.

I'm not sure I'm following you here. The Lorentz transformation can be used for transforming the components of any 4-vector from one inertial frame to another.
 
TSny said:
Hello.



I'm not sure I'm following you here. The Lorentz transformation can be used for transforming the components of any 4-vector from one inertial frame to another.

In that case I am just not sure how to use transformation formulas.
Can i take the corresponding component and "plug it in" in the Lorentz formula?
 
prehisto said:
In that case I am just not sure how to use transformation formulas.
Can i take the corresponding component and "plug it in" in the Lorentz formula?

Can you show explicitly what you are thinking?
 
TSny said:
Can you show explicitly what you are thinking?

My first thought was just to plug in velocity (v0y and v0z..) into Lorentz transform ,now i released that Lorentz transform is for coordinates and time only.

So maybe i can use vx=v'x+v/(1+v*v'x/c2) and plug velocity in there?
 
No, Lorentz transform is not for coordinates and time only. It applies for any 4-vector. Neat huh?
 
prehisto said:
My first thought was just to plug in velocity (v0y and v0z..) into Lorentz transform ,now i released that Lorentz transform is for coordinates and time only.

The Lorentz transformation is for any 4-vector. Here's a link that might help: http://physicspages.com/2011/04/18/four-vectors-basics/

See about a third of the way down where the transformation is given for a general 4-vector (A0, A1, A2, A3).

I think very few people any more use imaginary values for the zeroth component of a 4-vector. The link uses the more standard notation. You might need to make some adjustments in notation.

So maybe i can use vx=v'x+v/(1+v*v'x/c2) and plug velocity in there?

I don't think this is what the problem wants you to do.
 
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