Can the Order of Events Change in Different Frames of Reference?

In summary, event A causing event B in one frame of reference implies that B is within the future light cone of A. It is not possible for B to come before A in another frame of reference, as this would require B to be outside of the future light cone of A. Drawing space-time diagrams can help visualize this concept.
  • #1
GreenLRan
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Suppose event A causes event B. To one observer, event A comes before event B. Is it possible that in another frame of reference event B could come before event A? If so, how?
 
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  • #2
GreenLRan said:
Suppose event A causes event B. To one observer, event A comes before event B. Is it possible that in another frame of reference event B could come before event A? If so, how?

What is the special invariant quantity in special relativity?

Given two events, A and B, how does one define an invariant distance between them?

If you can calculate this special distance in one frame, what is its value in any other inertial frame?

What does this tell you about the "ordering" of events?
 
  • #3
GreenLRan said:
Suppose event A causes event B.
This implies that B is in the interior of, or on the boundary of, the future light cone of A.

GreenLRan said:
To one observer, event A comes before event B.
The only information that this adds is that B isn't on the boundary of the future light cone of A, so it must be in the interior.

GreenLRan said:
Is it possible that in another frame of reference event B could come before event A? If so, how?
No. If B had been outside of the future light cone of A, it would have been a different story. I suggest that you draw space-time diagrams to see why this is so.
 
  • #4
awsome, thanks guys.
 

FAQ: Can the Order of Events Change in Different Frames of Reference?

What is a frame of reference?

A frame of reference in science is a set of coordinates or parameters used to describe the position or motion of an object relative to another object or system.

Why is a frame of reference important?

A frame of reference is important because it allows us to accurately describe and measure the position, velocity, and acceleration of objects in relation to other objects or systems. It also helps us to understand the concept of relativity and how different observers may perceive the same event differently.

What are some common frames of reference?

Some common frames of reference include the Earth's surface, fixed stars, and a moving vehicle. In physics, the most commonly used frame of reference is an inertial frame, which is a frame in which Newton's laws of motion are valid.

How do frames of reference affect measurement?

Frames of reference can affect measurement by introducing relative motion and changing the perceived size, shape, and direction of an object. It is important to choose an appropriate frame of reference when making measurements to ensure accurate and consistent results.

Can multiple frames of reference be used at the same time?

Yes, multiple frames of reference can be used at the same time, as long as they are consistent and account for all relevant factors. For example, a moving car can be described using both an inertial frame (relative to the road) and a non-inertial frame (relative to the car's passengers).

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