I What is the difference between covariance and invariance in special relativity?

AI Thread Summary
In special relativity, an invariant quantity remains constant across all frames of reference, while covariance refers to how certain quantities transform between different frames. Invariance indicates that the value does not change regardless of the observer's motion, whereas covariance allows for the calculation of values in different frames by applying transformation rules. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding these concepts for grasping the principles of special relativity. Additional resources, such as Wikipedia articles on covariance and Lorentz covariance, provide further clarification. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for studying the effects of motion on physical quantities in relativity.
mjda
Messages
13
Reaction score
0
Can anyone briefly explain the difference between covariance and invariance in terms of special relativity?

My understanding is that an invariant quantity is a value which does not change regardless of frame of reference it is being measured in.

Covariance is a value which when measured in different frames of reference can be deduced by accounting for the transformation properties between the different frames?
 
Physics news on Phys.org

Thread 'The Physics of unloading sand from a barge'

I think it's easist first to watch a short vidio clip I find these videos very relaxing to watch .. I got to thinking is this being done in the most efficient way? The sand has to be suspended in the water to move it to the outlet ... The faster the water , the more turbulance and the sand stays suspended, so it seems to me the rule of thumb is the hose be aimed towards the outlet at all times .. Many times the workers hit the sand directly which will greatly reduce the water...
View full post »

Similar threads

I Tensor Equations: Invariance Across Different Reference Frames?
Replies
4
Views
2K
I What is the distinction between invariance and covariance?
Replies
10
Views
2K
I Principle of relativity in the proof of invariance of interval
2
Replies
53
Views
5K
I Physical Difference Between Co- and Contravariant Vectors
Replies
6
Views
1K
I Transformation Riemann tensor to an accelerating frame
Replies
10
Views
1K
I Special relativity vs Lorentz invariance
Replies
29
Views
3K
I What, exactly, are invariants?
3
Replies
144
Views
10K
I Questions about the general principle of relativity
Replies
5
Views
2K
I Time dilation vs Differential aging vs Redshift
Replies
21
Views
1K
I Michelson Morley experiment: relativistic explanation
Replies
3
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top