Moving Clock: Lorentz Factor Calculation

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of the Lorenz factor for a moving clock in the frame of reference of a "stationary" observer. This type of light clock is known as a "longitudinal light-clock" and has two advantages when rendered using LaTeX. The first is that the equations look better and the second is that responders can quote individual equations by quoting the LaTeX code.
  • #1
Dimani4
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Hi guys!
I want to thank to all the guys which helping us to understand the beauty and mystery of the relativistic theory.
Here I just want to share the calculation of Lorenz factor for the moving clock in the frame of reference of the "stationary" observer. This time the clock is not perpendicular to the movement but parallel. Here is is.
clock moving.jpg

Written: Time that observer sees (measures) when clock moving in v direction. I did clock with w length between two plates.
clock moving2.jpg
In the end is written: "The "light" time of the moving watch as being seen by observer at the ground.
This time observer at the ground measures with his "ground" watch. Meaning, he will measure "more" time by the factor called Lorentz factor. Every second in his watch will be (sqrt(1-v^2/c^2)) sec in the moving watch.

Thank you.
 
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  • #3
Indeed, I strongly suggest you take a look at our LaTeX primer, if you haven't already:

https://www.physicsforums.com/help/latexhelp/

This method has two important advantages:

1. The equations look better (no problems with handwriting style or poor lighting)

2. Responders can quote individual equations by quoting the LaTeX code, which isn't possible if they're embedded in an image (JPEG, GIF, etc.).
 
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Likes Dimani4

Related to Moving Clock: Lorentz Factor Calculation

1. What is the Lorentz factor in the context of moving clocks?

The Lorentz factor is a mathematical term that describes the relationship between time and velocity in Einstein's theory of special relativity. It is denoted by the symbol γ (gamma) and is equal to 1/√(1-v²/c²), where v is the velocity of the moving clock and c is the speed of light.

2. How do you calculate the Lorentz factor for a moving clock?

The Lorentz factor can be calculated using the formula γ = 1/√(1-v²/c²), where v is the velocity of the moving clock and c is the speed of light (approximately 3 x 10^8 meters per second). This formula takes into account the effects of time dilation, which causes time to appear to slow down for an observer in a frame of reference moving at a high velocity.

3. Why is the Lorentz factor important in understanding the behavior of moving clocks?

The Lorentz factor is important because it helps us understand how time is affected by motion at high velocities. It shows that as an object approaches the speed of light, time appears to slow down for an observer in a different frame of reference. This has significant implications for space travel and our understanding of the universe.

4. Can the Lorentz factor be greater than 1?

Yes, the Lorentz factor can be greater than 1. In fact, it approaches infinity as the velocity of the moving clock approaches the speed of light. This means that time dilation becomes more significant at higher velocities, causing time to appear to slow down even more for an observer in a different frame of reference.

5. How is the Lorentz factor used in practical applications?

The Lorentz factor is used in a variety of practical applications, including particle accelerators, GPS systems, and nuclear reactors. In these situations, it is necessary to take into account the effects of time dilation in order to accurately measure time and make precise calculations. The Lorentz factor allows us to do this by providing a mathematical framework for understanding how time is affected by motion at high velocities.

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