What is the new angle of the light ray after Lorentz transformations?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on determining the new angle of a light ray after applying Lorentz transformations when the inertial frame S moves in the x-direction at a velocity of c/2. The light ray initially forms a 60-degree angle with the x-axis. By applying the Lorentz transformation equations, specifically for time and space coordinates, the new angle in the moving frame S' can be calculated. The transformation reveals that the angle changes due to the relativistic effects of motion, resulting in a new angle that can be derived from the transformed coordinates.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lorentz transformations
  • Familiarity with the concept of inertial frames in special relativity
  • Basic knowledge of trigonometry and angles
  • Concept of light propagation in different reference frames
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of Lorentz transformation equations
  • Explore the implications of special relativity on light propagation
  • Learn about relativistic velocity addition
  • Investigate the effects of relativistic Doppler shift on light rays
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in the applications of special relativity and the behavior of light in moving reference frames.

Felpudio
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[Mentor's note: This question was originally posted and responded to in a non-homework forum, therefore it does not have the usual homework template.]

Hey, don't know how to solve this:

In an inertial frame S, consider a light ray on the XY plane forming a 60 degree angle with the x-axis. What will the new angle be, when S moves in the x direction with a c/2 velocity?

Thanks.
 
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Perhaps this should have been posted in the homework forum.

Consider the light ray starting at the origin of S at time ##t = 0## (with moving system denoted S', you already said S was the original inertial frame, you cannot call the moving frame S as well). Where will it be a time ##t = T## later based on the information you have? What do you get if you Lorentz transform these two events to S'?
 

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