Relativity Q: Light Beam Speed Relative to Object & Observer

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In summary, the speed of light with respect to any object or observer will be c, regardless of the speed of the object. This includes a spaceship traveling at c, though it cannot actually reach that speed. There is also the possibility of an Alcubierre warp drive, but it has its own limitations.
  • #1
devious_
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If a spaceship is traveling at c and a beam of light is emitted through it. The beam of light would be traveling at c relative to the object. Correct?

How about if there's an observer, what would the speed of the beam of light be relative to him. c?

And if the spaceship was instead traveling at 0.6c, would the speed of light relative to it still be c?
 
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  • #2
Yes to all: The speed of light with respect to any object or observer will be c.
 
  • #3
Great. Thanks. :)
 
  • #4
devious_ said:
If a spaceship is traveling at c

A spaceship can't travel at c, though it can get arbitrarily close.
 
  • #5
pervect said:
A spaceship can't travel at c, though it can get arbitrarily close.
Well... there is that whole Alcubierre warp drive thingy.

E.g. see Fundamental limitations on "warp drive" spacetimes, Francisco S. N. Lobo, Matt Visser, Class.Quant.Grav. 21 (2004) 5871-5892

Online at - http://xxx.lanl.gov/abs/gr-qc/0406083

Pete
 
  • #6
devious_ said:
If a spaceship is traveling at c
pervect said:
A spaceship can't travel at c, though it can get arbitrarily close.
Oops... I must have missed that statement by devious_ in my quick reading. Good catch, pervect.
 

FAQ: Relativity Q: Light Beam Speed Relative to Object & Observer

What is the theory of relativity?

The theory of relativity, developed by Albert Einstein, is a set of two theories in physics: the special theory of relativity and the general theory of relativity. These theories explain how the laws of physics work in different frames of reference and at different speeds.

How does the speed of light relate to relativity?

The special theory of relativity states that the speed of light in a vacuum is always constant, regardless of the relative motion of the source or the observer. This means that the speed of light is the same for all observers, regardless of their position or motion.

How does relativity affect the perception of time and distance?

The special theory of relativity also predicts that time and distance are not absolute, but are relative to the observer's frame of reference. This means that time and distance can appear different to observers who are moving at different speeds, and can even change depending on the strength of gravitational fields.

Can an object travel faster than the speed of light?

According to the special theory of relativity, the speed of light is the maximum speed at which all matter and information can travel. This means that it is not possible for any object to travel faster than the speed of light.

What is the significance of the theory of relativity in modern science?

The theory of relativity has had a significant impact on modern science and technology. It has been confirmed by numerous experiments and is the basis for many modern technologies, such as GPS systems. It has also influenced our understanding of the universe and helped to shape our current models of space, time, and gravity.

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