Go to: Course homepage, Lectures

Instructor informal session:

Tu 3:30-4:20pm, RAS 213.

Lec. 39 Special theory of relativity (STR) -- I

1. Nutshell difference between STR and the Newtonian mechanics: The Lorentz factor.
2. Historical background leading to STR

a) Galilean transformation (GT)

b) Newtonian mechanics compatible with GT+PR (Principle of Relativity)

c) EM theory is inconsistent with GT+PR

d) Lorentz transformation (LT) and c’=c.

e) Einstein’s postulate of special theory of relativity. (LT+PR)

3. Consequences of the STR

a) Constancy of speed of light, velocity addition.

b) Time dilation: Moving clock ticks slower.

c) Moving muon lives longer (Proper life time: 2.2 x 10^-6s)

d) Length contraction.

Reminders:

• Read chapter 36, start working on HW14.
• Tomorrow will be the last Tuesday informal session of the semester. Tu 3:30-4:20pm, RAS 213.