Connection between Lorentz covariance and special relativity

In summary, the equation s2 = t2 - x2 - y2 - z2 demonstrates Lorentz covariance and the concept of an invariant interval in special relativity. It can be used to derive everything about the spacetime structure, and thus predict all phenomena arising from special relativity, as long as all other laws of physics are also covariant. However, it should be noted that spacetime is not the only factor at play in understanding special relativity.
  • #1
fezster
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s2 = t2 - x2 - y2 - z2

This equation is covariant (Lorentz covariance). The interval "s" is invariant (Lorentz invariance).

Can you derive everything in special relativity from these facts? Or am I mistaken about that?
 
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  • #2
fezster said:
Can you derive everything in special relativity from these facts?

It depends on what you mean by "everything". You can derive everything about the spacetime structure, yes.
 
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  • #3
PeterDonis said:
It depends on what you mean by "everything". You can derive everything about the spacetime structure, yes.
When I say everything, I mean can we explain all the phenomena that arises due to special relativity on the basis of just these facts.

So, if we can predict all the phenomena of special relativity from the spacetime structure, and everything about spacetime can be derived from these facts, then the answer would be yes. Is that right?
 
  • #4
fezster said:
if we can predict all the phenomena of special relativity from the spacetime structure, and everything about spacetime can be derived from these facts, then the answer would be yes. Is that right?

Yes, as long as you also stipulate that all of the other laws of physics must be covariant (for example, Maxwell's Equations governing the electromagnetic field). This is not a problem because we have covariant forms of all those other laws. But it should be noted that spacetime, by itself, is not everything.
 

Related to Connection between Lorentz covariance and special relativity

1. What is Lorentz covariance?

Lorentz covariance refers to the mathematical principle that the laws of physics should remain the same for all observers moving at a constant velocity. This means that the physical quantities and equations used to describe the behavior of objects in one frame of reference should also hold true in another frame of reference that is moving at a constant velocity with respect to the first frame.

2. How does Lorentz covariance relate to special relativity?

Lorentz covariance is a fundamental principle of special relativity. The theory of special relativity was developed by Albert Einstein to explain the behavior of objects moving at high speeds and to reconcile the discrepancies between classical mechanics and electromagnetism. The principle of Lorentz covariance is a key component of special relativity and helps to explain the observed effects of time dilation and length contraction at high speeds.

3. What are the consequences of violating Lorentz covariance?

If Lorentz covariance is violated, it would mean that the laws of physics are not the same for all observers. This would lead to contradictions and inconsistencies in our understanding of the universe. One of the consequences of violating Lorentz covariance is that the speed of light would not be constant for all observers, which goes against experimental evidence and the foundations of special relativity.

4. Can Lorentz covariance be tested experimentally?

Yes, Lorentz covariance has been tested and confirmed through various experiments, such as the famous Michelson-Morley experiment. This experiment involved measuring the speed of light in different directions and found that it remained constant regardless of the observer's frame of reference. Many other experiments have also been conducted to test the predictions of special relativity and have consistently confirmed the principle of Lorentz covariance.

5. How does Lorentz covariance impact our understanding of space and time?

Lorentz covariance is a crucial concept in special relativity that has revolutionized our understanding of space and time. It suggests that time and space are relative and can be distorted by motion. This means that different observers can experience time and space differently, depending on their relative motion. Lorentz covariance has also led to the concept of spacetime, which combines space and time into a single four-dimensional continuum.

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