Thread: Special Lorentz Transformation Question

I am quite confused about how to go about this question. I know the answer is a=(2/3)^0.5

S and S' are in standard configuration with v = ac, (0 < a < 1). If a rod at rest in S' makes an angle of 45 degrees with 0x in S and 30 degrees with 0'x in S', then find a.

Thanks!

Originally Posted by purakanui

I am quite confused about how to go about this question. I know the answer is a=(2/3)^0.5

S and S' are in standard configuration with v = ac, (0 < a < 1). If a rod at rest in S' makes an angle of 45 degrees with 0x in S and 30 degrees with 0'x in S', then find a.

Thanks!

I assume standard configuration means that the relative motion is along one of the axes.

The component of length at right angles to the motion is unaffected by the motion, that along the direction of motion is dilated, the two angles allow you to find that dilation, and from that a.

CB