Length contraction - what is it?
As you already in our article on the topic of "time dilation" could read, the properties of objects strange, if this be at almost the speed of light.
- The Whole thing is also the length of objects in the case. In this example, we are on a planet that is not moving relative to us. The speed (V) is 0 in this case. Now suppose that you look in the sky and a space ship at almost the speed of light (V = 0,99 ⋅ c) fly past see.
- Here, you would find that the spacecraft is shorter. If you like the space ship night food would now, however, with a tape measure, you are not the same length, as in the case of a stationary space ship. The measuring tape is shrinking also.
- The length of a body is therefore in its direction of movement relatively, wherein the body has in the rest position, the greatest length. Perpendicular to the direction of movement, no contraction occurs.
- The relative length can also be calculated. The formula "l = l' ⋅ √(1 - V2 : c2)" is used.
Length contraction - what is it? (Source: Pixabay)
In the next tip we will explain what is Alpha and beta radiation is.
