Time Dilation Equation: Clarifying Variables

[Dgonzo15]

Hello, I've recently come across the equation for time dilation, which is t=t(p)*γ, which is
t=t(p)*(1/√(v^2/c^2)). Can someone please clarify what each of these variables mean?

 

[Zmunkz]

I think you are missing a ( 1- ... ) in your denominator.

In any case:

t=time measured to pass in the moving frame
t(p)=proper time measured to pass in a still frame
v=speed of the moving frame measured from the still frame
c=speed of light in a vacuum

 

[Dgonzo15]

From what I know, v is the speed of the reference frame which the light is on--is this what you meant?

 

[Zmunkz]

Yes -- I've not seen it phrased like that, but I think you are saying the same thing. In textbooks it is often a train or a spaceship said to be moving at some speed. That speed is given relative to a reference frame, and represents "v" in the equation.