# Time dialtion

1. Mar 15, 2009

### Stratosphere

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
A space ship is going at .4 the speed of light, find its y value.

2. Relevant equations
i think your suppose to use y=1/$$\sqrt{}1-(v/c)^2$$

3. The attempt at a solution
I got y=7.64*10^11
I also see a chart that says at .4 of c the y should only equal abought 1.
My calculator was also say " Domain Error" I dont know why. Also what exactly does y stand for?

2. Mar 15, 2009

### robphy

3. Mar 15, 2009

### Stratosphere

What units do you measure time dialtion in?

4. Mar 15, 2009

### robphy

It's dimensionless. It's a ratio of two times.

5. Mar 15, 2009

### DaveC426913

Yes, your answer will be very close to 1. Time dilation doesn't get very large until you get very close to c.

6. Mar 16, 2009

### Stratosphere

Why do i keep getting Domain error.

7. Mar 16, 2009

### robphy

Can you show us explicitly what you type or key in?

8. Mar 16, 2009

### Stratosphere

Never mind I think my calculator was malfunctioning, I just got it to work and got the right answer.