Physics Notes - Herong's Tutorial Notes - v3.22, by Dr. Herong Yang
Length Contraction in Minkowski Diagram
This section provides a demonstration of the length contraction phenomenon using a Minkowski diagram.
Minkowski diagram can also be used to demonstrate the length contraction phenomenon. Let's follow another simple thought experiment described below:
Now in Bob's frame:
So the length of the rod is contracted by X/X' = 5/4 = 1.25. which matches Lorentz factor of the length contraction formula presented earlier in the book.
Table of Contents
Introducion of Frame of Reference
Introduction of Special Relativity
Time Dilation in Special Relativity
Length Contraction in Special Relativity
The Relativity of Simultaneity
►Minkowski Spacetime and Diagrams
What Is Lorentz Transformation?
Constancy of Speed of Light in Minkowski Diagram
Time Dilation in Minkowski Diagram
►Length Contraction in Minkowski Diagram
Relativity of Simultaneity in Minkowski Diagram
Invariant Spacetime Interval in Minkowski Diagram