Four-Dimensional Vector in Special Relativity

In summary, we discussed the momentum-energy vector \vec{P} and the four-dimensional wave vector \vec{K}, which are related by the equation \vec{P}=\frac{h}{2\pi}\vec{K}, where E=\frac{h}{2\pi}\omega. It is worth noting that the use of imaginary basis for time has become less common in the concept of 4-vectors. Instead, a mixed signature metric is used to account for the concept of time as a measure of evolution and irreversibility. This results in time not being able to freely convert into space.
  • #1
zhangyang
58
0
About momentum-energy vector ,we have :

[itex]\vec{P}[/itex]=([itex]\vec{p}[/itex],i[itex]\frac{E}{c}[/itex])

and four dimentianal wave vector :

[itex]\vec{K}[/itex]=([itex]\vec{k}[/itex],i[itex]\frac{\omega}{c}[/itex])

They also satisfy the ralation :

[itex]\vec{P}[/itex]=[itex]\frac{h}{2\pi}[/itex][itex]\vec{K}[/itex],

because E=[itex]\frac{h}{2\pi}[/itex][itex]\omega[/itex].

It is interesting.
 
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  • #2
FYI: very few people use the imaginary basis for time anymore, when speaking of 4-vectors. Instead of a (+,+,+,+) metric with one imaginary basis, a mixed signature metric is used.
 
  • #3
ds[itex]^{2}[/itex]=x[itex]^{2}[/itex]+y[itex]^{2}[/itex]+z[itex]^{2}[/itex]-c[itex]^{2}[/itex]t[itex]^{2}[/itex]

In the four dimensional space-time vector,the concept of time has been bent,because time has the meaning of evolution and irreversibility.So it can't convert into space freely.
 

FAQ: Four-Dimensional Vector in Special Relativity

What is a four-dimensional vector in special relativity?

A four-dimensional vector in special relativity is a mathematical representation of a physical quantity that takes into account both space and time. It is commonly used in the theory of relativity to describe the position and motion of objects in a four-dimensional spacetime.

How does a four-dimensional vector differ from a regular three-dimensional vector?

A four-dimensional vector differs from a regular three-dimensional vector in that it includes a time component in addition to the three spatial components. This allows it to describe the position and motion of objects in a four-dimensional spacetime, whereas a three-dimensional vector can only describe objects in three-dimensional space.

What is the significance of using four-dimensional vectors in special relativity?

The use of four-dimensional vectors in special relativity is significant because it allows for a unified understanding of space and time. By incorporating time into the mathematical representation, it enables us to accurately describe physical phenomena such as time dilation and length contraction.

How are four-dimensional vectors used in practical applications?

Four-dimensional vectors are used in many practical applications, particularly in physics and engineering. They are used to describe the position and motion of particles in particle accelerators, to calculate the trajectory of space probes, and to model the behavior of physical systems in relativity and quantum mechanics.

Can four-dimensional vectors be visualized?

Four-dimensional vectors cannot be visualized in the traditional sense as they represent a four-dimensional spacetime that is beyond our three-dimensional perception. However, they can be represented mathematically and used to make predictions and calculations in special relativity theory.

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