Physics Relativity Question-Train at Relativistic Speeds

So she will observe the light from Andy first. So the answer is A.In summary, according to the teacher, Angela, who is on the platform, will see the light from Andy first when he and Mike strike their matchsticks at the same time according to train clocks. This is because Angela will perceive the timings to be different due to the relativistic speeds of the train. Therefore, the correct answer is A.
  • #1
vicky255
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Homework Statement




Train Direction---------->


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Andy Train Mike

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Angela(Platform)


Andy and Mike are on a train traveling at relativistic speeds. They both stike a matchstick at the instance shown where Andy and Mike are equal distances from her. What will she observe?


a) She will see the light from Andy first
b) She will see the light from Mike first
c) She will see the light from Andy and Mike simultaneously because she is equal distances from them
d)She will see the light from Andy and Mike simultaneously because light travels at the same speed in all frames of references


Homework Equations






The Attempt at a Solution



I thought it was D, but the teacher reckons it was A. Would someone please explain why I would be wrong?
 
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  • #2
Realize that Andy and Mike strike their matches at the same time according to train clocks. But Angela, on the platform, will disagree. According to her, they struck their matches at different times.
 

FAQ: Physics Relativity Question-Train at Relativistic Speeds

What is the theory of relativity?

The theory of relativity is a fundamental concept in physics that explains how the laws of physics are the same for all observers in uniform motion. It is divided into two parts: special relativity, which deals with the laws of physics in non-accelerating frames of reference, and general relativity, which extends these laws to include accelerating frames of reference and gravity.

What is the difference between special relativity and general relativity?

Special relativity deals with the laws of physics in non-accelerating frames of reference, while general relativity extends these laws to include accelerating frames of reference and gravity. Special relativity also introduces the concept of space-time and the idea that the laws of physics are the same for all observers in uniform motion. General relativity expands on this by incorporating the effects of gravity into the concept of space-time.

How does the theory of relativity apply to trains moving at relativistic speeds?

The theory of relativity applies to trains moving at relativistic speeds by predicting how time, length, and mass are affected by the train's high velocity. According to special relativity, time will appear slower and distances will appear shorter for observers on the train compared to those on the ground. This is known as time dilation and length contraction. General relativity also takes into account the effects of gravity on the train, which can further distort time and space.

Can anything travel faster than the speed of light according to the theory of relativity?

According to the theory of relativity, nothing can travel faster than the speed of light. This is a fundamental law of the universe and is supported by numerous experiments and observations. As an object approaches the speed of light, its mass increases and it requires an infinite amount of energy to accelerate it further. Therefore, it is impossible for anything to exceed the speed of light.

How has the theory of relativity impacted our understanding of the universe?

The theory of relativity has had a significant impact on our understanding of the universe. It has revolutionized our understanding of space, time, and gravity and has been confirmed by numerous experiments and observations. It has also led to the development of technologies such as GPS, which rely on the precise measurements of time and space predicted by relativity. Additionally, it has influenced our understanding of the Big Bang theory and the evolution of the universe as a whole.

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