Spacetime Interval Relativity question.

In summary, the question asks for the time interval between two events that are 5 seconds apart in time and 3 seconds apart in space. A clock traveling at a speed of 0.6 can be present at both events. Using the equation delta(s)^2 = delta(t)^2 - delta(d)^2, we can calculate that the distance interval is 4 seconds. However, this does not take into account the clock's velocity. Therefore, the time interval measured by the clock will be less than 4 seconds.
  • #1
PhantomFX
1
0

Homework Statement


Two events occur 5 s apart in time and 3 s apart in space. A clock traveling at a speed of .6 can be present at both these events. What time interval will such a clock measure between the events?
A. 8 s
B. 5.8 s
C. 5 s
D. 4 s
E. 2 s
F. Other


Homework Equations



I know delta(s)^2=delta(t)^2 - delta(d)^2, but I don't know how the clock's velocity plays into the problem.

The Attempt at a Solution


If you just use the equation above delta(s) comes out to be 4 s, but is that taking into account the fact that the clock is moving at .6?
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF!

Hi PhantomFX! Welcome to PF! :smile:
PhantomFX said:
… What time interval will such a clock measure between the events?

Hint: what distance interval will it measure? :wink:
 

Related to Spacetime Interval Relativity question.

1. What is spacetime interval relativity?

Spacetime interval relativity is a concept in physics that describes the relationship between space and time as one unified entity. It is based on the idea that the laws of physics should be the same for all observers, regardless of their relative motion.

2. How is spacetime interval relativity different from traditional theories of space and time?

Traditional theories of space and time, such as Newtonian mechanics, treat space and time as separate entities with fixed properties. In contrast, spacetime interval relativity combines space and time into a four-dimensional continuum and allows for their properties to vary depending on the observer's frame of reference.

3. What is the significance of the spacetime interval in relativity?

The spacetime interval is a measurement of the distance between two events in space and time. In relativity, this interval is used to calculate the proper time and proper distance, which are quantities that remain constant for all observers regardless of their relative motion. This helps to reconcile the discrepancies between different frames of reference in the universe.

4. How does spacetime interval relativity explain phenomena such as time dilation and length contraction?

Spacetime interval relativity explains these phenomena by showing that time and space are relative and can be affected by an observer's relative motion. This means that time can appear to pass slower or faster, and objects can appear to be shorter or longer, depending on the observer's frame of reference.

5. What are some practical applications of spacetime interval relativity?

Spacetime interval relativity has many practical applications in modern technology, such as GPS systems, which rely on accurate measurements of time and space to function properly. It also has implications in fields such as astronomy, where understanding the effects of spacetime can help us better understand the universe and its origins.

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