Understanding the Lorentz Transformation Equations

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the Lorentz transformation equations, which are fundamental in the context of special relativity. Participants are exploring how to express these equations in matrix format, while some express confusion regarding the initial expressions and their correctness.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to rewrite the Lorentz equations in matrix form and are asking for help in filling in the matrix elements. There is also a discussion about the correctness of initial expressions and the challenges of using LaTeX for formatting.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided potential values for the matrix elements, while others express frustration with the process. There appears to be a mix of attempts to clarify the matrix representation and acknowledgment of previous contributions, but no consensus has been reached on the final matrix form.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention difficulties with LaTeX formatting and express varying levels of confidence in their understanding of the matrix representation of the Lorentz transformations. Some participants indicate a desire to step back from active problem-solving due to confusion or frustration.

stevmg
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x_2=v*t.

I was told that this is incorrect but I don't even know what it is.

The Lorentz equations are:

x' = \gamma(x - vt)
t' = \gamma(t - vx/c2)

How would you write that in matrix format?
 
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stevmg said:
x_2=v*t.

I was told that this is incorrect but I don't even know what it is.
I don't either.
stevmg said:
The Lorentz equations are:

x' = \gamma(x - vt)
t' = \gamma(t - vx/c2)

How would you write that in matrix format?

Edit: Fill in the question marks.
\left[\begin{array}{c} x' \\ t' \end{array}\right] = \left[ \begin{array} {cc} ? & ? \\ ? & ? \end{array} \right] \left[\begin{array}{c} x \\ t \end{array}\right]
 
Last edited:
stevmg said:
How would you write that in matrix format?
\left(<br /> \begin{array}{cc}<br /> x&#039;\\<br /> t&#039;<br /> \end{array}<br /> \right) = \left( \begin{array}{cc} ? &amp; ?\\? &amp; ?\end{array}\right)<br /> \left(<br /> \begin{array}{cc}<br /> x\\<br /> t<br /> \end{array}<br /> \right)

Fill in the ? marks.
 
Too late! Mark44 already did!
 
HallsofIvy said:
Too late! Mark44 already did!
:cry:
 
I revised my answer, realizing I gave too much help.
 
I tried I can't make the matrix work.

I am wasting my time...

I'll just read from now on as this array/matrix stuff is pure crap to me.

Thanks anyway
 
stevmg said:
x_2=v*t.

I was told that this is incorrect but I don't even know what it is.

The Lorentz equations are:

x' = \gamma(x - vt)
t' = \gamma(t - vx/c2)

How would you write that in matrix format?
It might be helpful to write the equations above as
x&#039; = \gamma x - \gamma vt
t&#039; = -\gamma \frac{v}{c^2}x + \gamma t
 
Mark44 said:
It might be helpful to write the equations above as
x&#039; = \gamma x - \gamma vt
t&#039; = -\gamma \frac{v}{c^2}x + \gamma t

I do not know how to write a matrix in Latex format and no matter how hard I try I never get it.

If I could hand write it, I would but that's not possible here.

I am NOT wasting more time on this and I thank you for your time.

Steve G
Melbourne FL
 
  • #10
stevmg said:
I do not know how to write a matrix in Latex format and no matter how hard I try I never get it.
You can always just click on one of the ones we provided and copy the code, but no matter.

If the only issue is that you can't write it, that's not a problem. If I write the matrix as:

<br /> \left( \begin{array}{cc} a &amp; b\\c &amp; d\end{array}\right)<br />

We can discuss your answers for the elements a, b, c, and d.
 
  • #11
a = \gamma
b = -\gammav
c = -\gammav/c2
d = \gamma
 
  • #12
stevmg said:
a = \gamma
b = -\gammav
c = -\gammav/c2
d = \gamma

Thats correct, do you have to solve this linear ODE, or just write it in matrix form?
 
  • #13
stevmg said:
a = \gamma
b = -\gammav
c = -\gammav/c2
d = \gamma
Perfect.
 

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