Galilean Transformation Question

In summary, the conversation discusses the Galilean transformation for the x-coordinate in the case of two frames, S and S', with S as the rest frame and S' moving in the +ve x direction. The equation for the transformation is x'=x-vt instead of x'=x+vt, which is explained by the concept of an object lying on the positive x-axis and the origin of S' moving towards it. A picture is also suggested to aid understanding. The conversation concludes with the importance of understanding these concepts for studying SR.
  • #1
misogynisticfeminist
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What happens if I have 2 frames,S and S', with S as my rest frame and S' moving in the +ve x direction (towards the right). Why is it that the equation for the galilean transformation for the x-coordinate is [tex] x'=x-vt [/tex] instead of [tex] x'=x+vt[/tex] ?
 
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  • #2
Think of an object lying on the positive x-axis (it therefore also lies on the x'-axis). At t=0 the x and x' coordinate of the object are the same, but since the origin in S' moves towards the object (as seen from S. In S' the object moves towards the origin.) the x' coordinate decreases with time. So x'=x-vt is the right equation.

Drawing a picture also helps.
 
  • #3
The primed coordinates are the coordinates measured by the "moving" frame. Take a simple case: Imagine an object moving along with the origin of S'. After a time t, the S frame says the object's coordinates are (x,t) = (vt,t). Of course, the S' frame gives the coordinates as (x', t) = (0, t). Using [itex] x'=x+vt[/itex] gives the wrong answer.
 
  • #4
hey thanks alot, I've gottit, sorry if my questions are a little too simple, I'm mostly self-taught.
 
  • #5
There's no problem with us:it's essential for you to have these problems clear,especially if you want to go into studying SR,where things are a bit more difficult...

Daniel.
 

FAQ: Galilean Transformation Question

What is the Galilean transformation?

The Galilean transformation is a mathematical equation that describes the relationship between two different coordinate systems in inertial frames of reference. It was first introduced by the scientist Galileo Galilei in the 17th century and is often used in classical mechanics to understand the motion of objects.

How does the Galilean transformation work?

The Galilean transformation is based on the principle of relativity, which states that the laws of physics are the same in all inertial frames of reference. It describes how measurements of space and time in one coordinate system can be converted to measurements in another coordinate system that is moving at a constant velocity relative to the first system.

What is the difference between the Galilean transformation and the Lorentz transformation?

The Galilean transformation is a simple mathematical equation that only applies to measurements in inertial frames of reference, where objects are moving at constant velocities. The Lorentz transformation, on the other hand, is a more complex equation that takes into account the effects of special relativity, such as time dilation and length contraction, which occur at high speeds and in non-inertial frames of reference.

What are some real-world applications of the Galilean transformation?

The Galilean transformation is commonly used in classical mechanics to analyze the motion of objects, such as projectiles, in a constant gravitational field. It is also used in engineering and navigation to understand the motion of objects, such as airplanes and ships, in relation to the Earth's surface.

Are there any limitations to the Galilean transformation?

Yes, the Galilean transformation is only applicable in situations where the relative velocity between two frames of reference is much less than the speed of light. It also does not take into account the effects of special relativity, which are important at high speeds. In these cases, the Lorentz transformation is a more accurate mathematical model.

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