Understanding Lorentz Transformations: Equations and Explanation

  • Thread starter Thread starter ZedCar
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Lorentz
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on Lorentz transformations, specifically the equations that relate two reference frames, S and S'. The terms x' and x are defined clearly: x' represents the position of an event as measured in the S' frame, while x denotes the position of the same event as measured in the S frame. This clarification is essential for understanding how events are perceived differently in relativistic contexts. The source of the equations is linked to the relativity calculator website, which provides additional resources for visualizing these transformations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of special relativity concepts
  • Familiarity with reference frames in physics
  • Basic knowledge of mathematical notation used in physics
  • Ability to interpret graphical representations of physical systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of Lorentz transformation equations
  • Explore the implications of Lorentz transformations on simultaneity
  • Learn about relativistic velocity addition using the provided calculator
  • Investigate the impact of Lorentz transformations on time dilation and length contraction
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching special relativity, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of relativistic physics will benefit from this discussion.

ZedCar
Messages
353
Reaction score
1
Just underneath the diagram of the 3 S-systems at the top of this webpage;
http://www.relativitycalculator.com/addition_relativistic_velocities.shtml

It gives equations for Lorentz transformation between S and S'

Does x' mean the distance between the origin of frame S' and the event as measured from the origin of frame S?

And does x mean the distance from the origin of the S frame to the event as measured from the origin of the S' frame?

Thank you.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
x' is the position of the event as measured in the S' frame; x is the position of the event as measured in the S frame.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 28 ·
Replies
28
Views
2K
  • · Replies 35 ·
2
Replies
35
Views
5K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K