Why are mass, length, and energy relative?

In summary, the conversation discusses how time is relative thanks to Einstein's thought experiments, but questions why length, energy, and mass are also relative. It is explained that modern physicists use an invariant mass and that energy is relative even in Newtonian physics. The concept of length contraction is introduced through a thought experiment with a moving rocket ship and a light clock. It is then noted that the formula for length contraction can be derived without reference to time dilation, but it is used for explanation purposes. Finally, a resource is recommended for understanding relativistic energy and mass.
  • #1
beatlemaniacj
49
0
I understand why time is relative, (thanks to Einsteins thought experiments) but why are length, energy, and mass relative. I can see that if mass is relative so would energy be (and vice versa) but I cannot understand why either are. Same with length. Any help?
 
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  • #2
Mass isn't relative, or rather, the mass that modern physicists use is the invariant mass which, as the name suggests, is not relative.

Energy is relative even in Newtonian physics, particularly kinetic energy.

Given that time is relative then length must be relative also otherwise c could not be invariant.
 
  • #3
You mentioned the thought experiment for time. If you're speaking of the 'light clock' thought experiment, then there is a direct analogue for length contraction. Imagine positioning a rigid rod on a moving rocket ship. Then, observers on the ship shine a light from below the rod to a mirror above. The length of the rod can be calculated in this frame by multiplying the speed of light by the time elapsed from the shining of the light until the impact with the mirror. Observers floating in empty space at rest can also do this calculation. However, due to the relativity of time, they both record different values for the elapsed time. Hence, they calculate different lengths.

Keep in mind that you can derive the formula for length correction without making any reference to time dilation, but I used it for my explanation because you already understand TD.

Regarding relativistic energy and mass, read this:

http://math.ucr.edu/home/baez/physics/Relativity/SR/mass.html
 

1. Why are mass, length, and energy considered relative?

Mass, length, and energy are considered relative because their values can vary depending on the observer's frame of reference. This means that different observers can measure these quantities differently based on their relative motion and perspective.

2. How does Einstein's theory of relativity explain the relativity of mass, length, and energy?

Einstein's theory of relativity explains that the laws of physics are the same for all observers in uniform motion, regardless of their frame of reference. This means that the measurements of mass, length, and energy can vary for different observers, but the underlying physical principles remain consistent.

3. What is the relationship between mass, length, and energy in relativity?

In relativity, mass, length, and energy are interconnected through the famous equation E=mc², where E represents energy, m represents mass, and c represents the speed of light. This equation shows that mass and energy are interchangeable and that length can also be affected by changes in energy and mass.

4. How do mass, length, and energy behave differently in classical physics and relativity?

In classical physics, mass, length, and energy are considered absolute and unchanging. However, in relativity, these quantities are relative and can change depending on the observer's frame of reference. Relativity also accounts for the effects of high speeds and gravity on these values, which are not considered in classical physics.

5. Can the relativity of mass, length, and energy be observed in everyday life?

Yes, the relativity of mass, length, and energy can be observed in everyday life. One example is the phenomenon of time dilation, where time appears to pass slower for objects in motion compared to stationary objects. This is due to the relative nature of time in relation to an observer's frame of reference. Additionally, GPS technology relies on the principles of relativity to function accurately.

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