The Derivative of Lorentz Transformation

In summary, Lorentz Transformation is an equation that links the coordinates in two reference frames, S and S'. Its derivative can be used to derive the velocity addition equation, which allows for the calculation of velocity in a given reference frame based on the velocity in a neighboring reference frame and their relative velocities. This is achieved by finding the expressions for dx and dt and then regrouping the terms to express it in terms of velocity.
  • #1
Hyperreality
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0
Lorentz Transformation says

[tex]x'=\frac{x-ut}{\sqrt{1-u^2/c^2}}[/tex]

Does its derivative

[tex]\frac{dx'}{dt}=\frac{dx/dt-u}{\sqrt{1-u^2/c^2}}[/tex]

give the velocity addition equation?
 
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  • #2
Hyperreality said:
Lorentz Transformation says
[tex]x'=\frac{x-ut}{\sqrt{1-u^2/c^2}}[/tex]
Does its derivative
[tex]\frac{dx'}{dt}=\frac{dx/dt-u}{\sqrt{1-u^2/c^2}}[/tex]
give the velocity addition equation?

Note, that Lorentz transformations link the coordinates in two RFs: S and S'. Velocity in S is dx/dt, while that in S' will be dx'/dt'
The derivatives like dx'/dt or dx/dt' - do not make any sense - because they consist of values from different RFs...
So to derive the velocity formula, you have to find first the expressions for dx and dt, and then divide them one on the other. Regrouping the terms it is possible to express it via velocity in the neighbour RF and their relative velocities...

[tex]v=\frac{dx}{dt}}[/tex]
[tex]dx'=\frac{dx-u*dt}{\sqrt{1-u^2/c^2}}[/tex]
[tex]dt'=\frac{dt-u*dx/c^2}{\sqrt{1-u^2/c^2}}[/tex]
[tex]v'=\frac{dx'}{dt'}=\frac{v-u}{1-u*v/c^2}[/tex]
 
  • #3


Yes, the derivative of the Lorentz Transformation gives the velocity addition equation. This can be seen by rewriting the derivative as:

\frac{dx'}{dt}=\frac{dx/dt-\frac{u}{\sqrt{1-u^2/c^2}}}{\sqrt{1-u^2/c^2}}

Using the fact that \frac{dx}{dt} is the velocity of the object in the original frame, and \frac{dx'}{dt} is the velocity of the object in the transformed frame, we can see that the velocity addition equation is satisfied. This equation shows that the velocity of an object in one frame, when observed from another frame moving at a velocity u, is given by the sum of the velocities in the two frames. Therefore, the derivative of the Lorentz Transformation does give the velocity addition equation.
 

1. What is the Lorentz Transformation?

The Lorentz Transformation is a mathematical formula used in special relativity to describe how the measurements of space and time change when observed from different frames of reference. It was first introduced by physicist Hendrik Lorentz in the late 19th century and was later refined by Albert Einstein in his theory of special relativity.

2. What is the derivative of the Lorentz Transformation?

The derivative of the Lorentz Transformation is a mathematical expression that describes the rate of change of the transformation with respect to a particular variable. It is typically used to calculate the velocity or acceleration of an object in special relativity.

3. How is the derivative of the Lorentz Transformation derived?

The derivative of the Lorentz Transformation can be derived using the principles of calculus, specifically the chain rule. It involves taking the derivative of each component of the transformation and then combining them to obtain the overall derivative.

4. Why is the derivative of the Lorentz Transformation important?

The derivative of the Lorentz Transformation is important because it allows us to calculate the velocity and acceleration of objects in special relativity. It is also used in other areas of physics, such as particle physics and cosmology, to describe the behavior of particles and objects moving at high speeds.

5. Are there any real-world applications of the derivative of the Lorentz Transformation?

Yes, the derivative of the Lorentz Transformation has many real-world applications. It is used in the design and development of various technologies, such as GPS systems, particle accelerators, and nuclear reactors. It is also important in understanding and predicting the behavior of objects moving at high speeds, such as spacecraft and subatomic particles.

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