Different times Reference Frame Question

In summary, the given events occur at different times and positions in a reference frame, but there exists a second reference frame in which the events occur at the same position but different times. This frame would be moving at a speed of 1.66 x 10^8 m/s relative to the first frame. The frame in which the two events have the least possible distance would be the reference frame with the calculated speed.
  • #1
bethany555
4
0

Homework Statement



In a given reference frame, event 1 occurs at t1 = 0 s and position x1 = 0 m while event 2 occurs at t2 = 3.6 × 10^−4 s and x2 = 0.60 × 10^5m. Is there a second reference frame in which these events could be at the same place but different times? If so, specify its motion with respect to the first frame. If not, what is the frame in which the two events have the least possible distance.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I wasn't sure if this is how you do it, but since .60^5/3.6^-4 = 1.66 x 10^8 m/s, which is lower than the speed of light, I said a reference frame moving at that speed relative to the first one would satisfy that requirement. However, can someone confirm / refute that and give me some advice. Thank you!

Homework Statement

 
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  • #2
I haven't actually checked your arithmetic, but you're thinking about the problem in the right way, so if you did the arithmetic right you'll have the right answer.
 

Related to Different times Reference Frame Question

What is a reference frame?

A reference frame is a set of coordinates that are used to measure the position, motion, and orientation of objects. It is used as a standard for comparison in physics and can be either stationary or in motion.

How does a reference frame affect measurements?

The choice of reference frame can affect the measurements of an object's position, motion, and orientation. For example, an object may appear to be moving at a different speed or direction depending on the reference frame chosen.

What is the difference between an inertial and non-inertial reference frame?

An inertial reference frame is one in which Newton's laws of motion hold true and there are no external forces acting on the objects within it. A non-inertial reference frame is one in which the objects within it experience a fictitious force due to the acceleration of the frame itself.

How do we determine the reference frame for a specific observation?

The choice of reference frame depends on the observer's perspective and the type of measurement being made. In some cases, it may be necessary to use multiple reference frames to accurately describe the motion of an object.

How does the concept of relativity relate to reference frames?

The theory of relativity states that the laws of physics are the same in all inertial reference frames. This means that there is no absolute reference frame and all measurements are relative to the chosen frame of reference.

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