Special Relativity: Which notation to use

[Matty R]

Hello

This isn't a specific problem-based question. I'm just a little confused over the notation I should be using. Also, I'm sorry if I've put this in the wrong section.

I'm on an Undergrad Physics course, and in the Relativity part that we're doing, we use two different kinds of notation. Is there any difference between "primed" and "subscript"?

$$L = \frac{L_0}{\gamma}$$


$$L = \frac{L'}{\gamma}$$

As far as I can tell, both equations represent the same thing.

I'd rather use a single notation, so if there isn't a difference, is there a generally preferred one?

Thanks

 

[Matty R]

Never mind. I worked out the difference.

First equation:
L_{0} = Proper Length
L = Length in frame moving relative to the rest frame.

Second equation:
L = Proper Length
L' = Length in frame moving relative to the rest frame.