Special Relativity and the Relativity of Simultaneity.

In summary, the conversation discusses the position of the rocket in relation to the galaxy and the possibility of the galaxy moving past the rocket. It also mentions the potential for the rocket to see the light from R first and the potential for the rocket to end up to the right of the galaxy after L explodes. However, the problem statement clarifies that the rocket enters the galaxy from the left and does not necessarily change positions afterwards. This raises the question of whether the reasoning presented may be flawed due to this limitation.
  • #1
alingy1
325
0
The position of the rocket is not specific. We just know that it is at the left of the galaxy. We know that R will explode first in the rocket's frame.

Maybe the galaxy could be moving fast enough so that the time it takes for L to explode is enough for the rocket to see R's light first. In other words, in the time delay L explodes after R, maybe the galaxy could go past the rocket (end up to the left of the rocket). If the galaxy ends up to the left of the rocket and L explodes after that, then R is for sure the first light that the rocket sees.

http://imgur.com/1vzsRWW
 
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  • #2
What did the problem statement say about the relationship between the rocket and the galaxy? Does it suggest to you any reason why your reasoning might be flawed?
 
  • #3
Hi, the rocket "enters the galaxy from left". That does NOT mean that after R explodes, in the time it takes for L to now explode, the rocket could now be to the right of the galaxy.
 

Related to Special Relativity and the Relativity of Simultaneity.

What is Special Relativity?

Special Relativity is a theory developed by Albert Einstein that explains how the laws of physics remain the same for all observers in uniform motion, regardless of their relative velocities. It also describes the relationship between space and time, and how they are affected by the speed of an observer.

What is the Relativity of Simultaneity?

The Relativity of Simultaneity is a consequence of Special Relativity that states that there is no absolute notion of simultaneity. This means that events that are simultaneous for one observer may not be simultaneous for another observer in a different frame of reference. The concept of simultaneity is relative and depends on the observer's relative motion.

How does Special Relativity change our understanding of time and space?

Special Relativity states that time and space are not absolute concepts, but are instead relative to an observer's frame of reference. This means that the perception of time and space can differ between observers depending on their relative speeds. It also introduces the concept of spacetime, where time and space are intertwined and cannot be separated.

What is the role of the speed of light in Special Relativity?

The speed of light, denoted by the symbol c, plays a crucial role in Special Relativity. It is a fundamental constant that is the same for all observers, regardless of their relative velocities. This means that no observer can exceed the speed of light, and it is the maximum speed at which information can travel in the universe.

What are some practical applications of Special Relativity?

Special Relativity has numerous practical applications, including GPS navigation systems, particle accelerators, and nuclear power plants. It also plays a crucial role in understanding the behavior of particles at high speeds and in the development of space travel technology. Additionally, the principles of Special Relativity are used in many modern technologies, such as MRI machines and nuclear weapons.

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