Speed and angle relativity theory transformations

In summary, the problem involves a red spaceship moving left at velocity V1 in the lab system, with a ball being thrown at an angle alpha and speed U in the red spaceship system. The task is to determine the value of alpha in the blue system. The relevant equation is the Lorentz transformation of speed and location. The solution involves resolving the x and y components of the U vector in both frames and transforming them separately. The person asking for help is unsure of which speeds to transform and is seeking assistance.
  • #1
Zubilaemo
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Homework Statement



http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/9682/spaceships.gif

V1, V2, U, alpha are given.

The red spaceship is moving left in Velocity V1 (in the lab system) and a ball is thrown in angle alpha and speed U(in the red spaceship system).

What is Alpha in the Blue system?

Homework Equations



lorentz transformation of speed and location


The Attempt at a Solution



I am quite clueless as to which speeds I should transform to what, and would appreciate a lending hand. thanks!
 
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  • #2
Resolve the x and y components of the U vector in both frames. Then transform those separately.
 

FAQ: Speed and angle relativity theory transformations

How does the speed and angle relativity theory explain the bending of light?

The speed and angle relativity theory, also known as the theory of special relativity, explains that the speed of light is constant regardless of the observer's frame of reference. This means that the path of light appears to bend when it travels through different mediums or gravitational fields, but the speed of light remains the same.

Can you provide a real-life example of the speed and angle relativity theory?

One famous example of the speed and angle relativity theory is the Twin Paradox. This thought experiment involves one twin traveling at near-light speeds while the other twin stays on Earth. When the traveling twin returns, they will have aged less than the twin who stayed on Earth due to time dilation, a concept explained by the theory of special relativity.

How do the equations for speed and angle relativity theory transformations differ from classical equations?

The equations for speed and angle relativity theory, including time dilation and length contraction, differ from classical equations because they take into account the principles of relativity, such as the constancy of the speed of light and the relativity of simultaneity. These equations also involve factors such as the Lorentz factor and the observer's relative velocity.

What is the significance of the speed of light in the theory of special relativity?

The speed of light, denoted by the symbol c, is a fundamental constant in the theory of special relativity. It is the maximum speed at which any object or information can travel, and it is the same for all observers regardless of their frame of reference. This constant plays a crucial role in the equations and principles of the theory.

How does the speed and angle relativity theory impact our understanding of time and space?

The speed and angle relativity theory has revolutionized our understanding of time and space. It has shown that time and space are not absolute, but rather relative concepts that depend on the observer's frame of reference. This theory has also led to the development of concepts such as spacetime, which combines these two previously separate entities into one interconnected concept.

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