Special relativity - time dilation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the application of Lorentz transformations to analyze time dilation in special relativity. The events occur at the origin of an inertial observer's frame, O', with times t_1' = 0 and t_2' = T. In the frame of another observer, O, these events are represented as occurring at x = vt, with times t_1 = 0 and t_2 = γT, where γ is the Lorentz factor. The confusion arises when attempting to relate the coordinates and times, highlighting the importance of correctly applying the Lorentz transformations to derive the positions x_1 = 0 and x_2 = γvT.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lorentz transformations in special relativity
  • Familiarity with the concept of time dilation
  • Knowledge of the Lorentz factor (γ)
  • Basic grasp of inertial reference frames
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and implications of the Lorentz transformations
  • Learn about the concept of simultaneity in different inertial frames
  • Explore practical applications of time dilation in high-speed scenarios
  • Investigate the inverse Lorentz transformations and their significance
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Students of physics, particularly those studying special relativity, educators teaching the principles of time dilation, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of relativistic physics.

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Consider two events that take place at the origin of the frame of an inertial observer O'. At times t_1 ' = 0 and t_2 ' = T. O' moves with a constant speed v w.r.t. another inertial observer O.

1. Use the Lorentz-transformations to show that these events occur at x=vt in the frame of O, at the times t_1 = 0 and t_2 = \gamma T. Show furthermore that the events do not occur at the same place in O, but at x_1=0 and x_2 = \gamma vT.

My attempt below. I am very confused, so I have no idea if what I'm doing is even remotely correct:

Since both events take place at the origin of S', we get that x' = 0. From here it follows using the Lorentz transformation that x=vt.

After this the confusion starts. If we use the Lorentz transformation for time, and we use t'_1 = 0, we actually get t_1 = \dfrac{vx}{c^2}. But this doesn't correspond with what they ask, right? If we do the same for t_2' = T, we get the very same problem. What am I doing incorrectly here?

Using the same tactic above, if I fill in x' = 0 and t_1 = 0 and t_2 = \gamma T, I do get the correct answers for x_1 and x_2! So, that confuses me..
 
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You did not do something wrong. It is just that you got a relation between two unknowns, ##x_1## and ##t_1## (the x coordinate corresponding to ##t_1## should be ##x_1##). In order to find another equation to help you, use what you just derived from the Lorentz transformation of x, it must be true in particular for ##t_1## and ##x_1##.

The alternative is to use the inverse Lorentz transformations from the start, what you are doing essentially corresponds to inverting the transform anyway.

For future reference, you should also leave the homework template when posting your question. It helps ordering your thoughts and structure the post so that we can grasp your problem quicker.
 

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