Speical relativity problem: How Tall Really Is Your Favorite Superhero?

  • Thread starter Thread starter jlk
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Relativity
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics problem involving special relativity, specifically calculating the perceived height of a superhero flying at 70.0% the speed of light above the Empire State Building. The relevant equation used is L = L0 √(1 - v²/c²), where L0 is the proper length, v is the velocity, and c is the speed of light. The calculated height of the superhero is 1.43m, but due to relativistic effects, her height as perceived from the ground will differ. The problem requires understanding both the equation and the implications of relativistic length contraction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of special relativity concepts
  • Familiarity with the equation L = L0 √(1 - v²/c²)
  • Knowledge of the speed of light (c) and its significance in physics
  • Basic algebra skills for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of length contraction in special relativity
  • Learn how to apply Lorentz transformations in various scenarios
  • Explore examples of relativistic effects in high-speed travel
  • Study the concept of proper length versus observed length in physics
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on special relativity, as well as educators looking for practical examples to illustrate relativistic concepts.

jlk
Messages
5
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



You are at the top of the Empire State Building on the 102nd floor, which is located 373m above the ground, when your favorite superhero flies over the building parallel to the ground at 70.0% the speed of light.

You have never seen your favorite superhero in real life. Out of curiosity you calculate her height to be 1.43m . If the superhero landed next to you, how tall would she be when standing?

What is the height of the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building as measured by the superhero while flying above it?


I'm not sure how to start the problem, but i do know you will have to use that formula.

Homework Equations



L= L0 square root of (1- v2/c2)

The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org
jlk said:

Homework Statement



You are at the top of the Empire State Building on the 102nd floor, which is located 373m above the ground, when your favorite superhero flies over the building parallel to the ground at 70.0% the speed of light.

You have never seen your favorite superhero in real life. Out of curiosity you calculate her height to be 1.43m . If the superhero landed next to you, how tall would she be when standing?

What is the height of the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building as measured by the superhero while flying above it?


I'm not sure how to start the problem, but i do know you will have to use that formula.

Homework Equations



L= L0 square root of (1- v2/c2)
Can you start by identifying what each of the variables in the equation are and what they mean?
 
i figure it out :)
thanks though.
 

Similar threads

Velocity & acceleration problem
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
How can you accurately hit a trash bin while biking with an apple core?
  • · Replies 47 ·
2
Replies
47
Views
7K
Help please simple Physics motion in one dimension problem Urgent?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
How Tall Is The Building? - Projectile Motion
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
15K
Special relativity and really fast trains
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Solve 1D Relative Motion Homework: Ball Thrown, Elevator, Tennis & Baseballs
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
Kinematics Questions: Solutions and Explanations
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Solving Projectile Motion Problems: Intersecting Balls at Different Heights
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Finding the Optimal Mirror for Your Dressing Room
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
10K
How Do You Calculate the Initial Drop Height in a Free Fall Problem?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K