Special relativity - frames of reference

In summary, the conversation discusses two frames of reference, K (x,y,t) and K' (x',y',t'), with initial values of x, y, t, x', y', and t' all set to 0. The problem asks for the Lorentz transformations for K' moving with a velocity of v [\tfrac{1}{\sqrt{2}},\tfrac{1}{\sqrt{2}}]. The resulting equations for t', x', and y' are given as t' = \frac{t - (\vec{v} \circ (x, y))/c^2}{\sqrt{1 - \frac{v^2}{c^2}}}, x' =
  • #1
qoqosz
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Homework Statement


We have two frames of reference: K (x,y,t) and K' (x',y',t') such that initially x=x'=y=y'=t=t'=0. Now let K' move with a velocity [tex]\vec{v} = v [\tfrac{1}{\sqrt{2}},\tfrac{1}{\sqrt{2}}][/tex]
Write Lorentz transformations in such a case.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


My try is:
[tex]t' = \frac{t - (\vec{v} \circ (x, y))/c^2}{\sqrt{1 - \frac{v^2}{c^2}}}, \; x' = \frac{x - v_x t}{\sqrt{1 - \frac{v^2}{c^2}}}, y' = \frac{y - v_y t}{\sqrt{1 - \frac{v^2}{c^2}}}[/tex]

where [tex]v_x = v_y = \frac{v}{\sqrt{2}}[/tex]
 
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  • #3
Great, thank you!
 

FAQ: Special relativity - frames of reference

What is special relativity?

Special relativity is a theory developed by Albert Einstein that describes the relationships between space and time in the absence of gravitational forces. It is based on the principle that the laws of physics are the same for all observers in uniform motion.

What is a frame of reference?

A frame of reference is a set of physical objects or points that are used to define the position and motion of other objects. In special relativity, frames of reference are used to describe the relative motion of objects and how time and space are perceived by different observers.

How does special relativity differ from classical mechanics?

Special relativity differs from classical mechanics in several ways. One of the main differences is that special relativity takes into account the speed of light as a constant and the effects of time dilation and length contraction at high speeds. It also introduces the concept of spacetime, where space and time are not separate entities but rather intertwined.

What is the principle of relativity?

The principle of relativity is the idea that the laws of physics are the same for all observers in uniform motion. This means that there is no preferred frame of reference in the universe and that all laws of physics are equally valid in all inertial frames of reference.

How does special relativity impact our everyday lives?

Special relativity has many applications in modern technology, such as GPS systems, which use the principles of relativity to accurately measure time and location. It also plays a crucial role in particle accelerators and the study of high-energy physics. Additionally, special relativity has revolutionized our understanding of the universe and has led to many significant discoveries in cosmology.

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