Objectives and Homework for August 26, 2003.
[1] Know what is meant by the term "Inertial Reference Frame (IRF)", and know how different IRFs may be related.
[2] Understand what is meant by the term "Galilean Transformation". Hint: it's pathetic.
[3] Understand why Maxwell's Equations, coupled with the Galilean Transformation Law, require the existence of an "Ether".
[4] Understand the Michelson-Morley Experiment, what it implies, and why. Be able to discuss the pros and cons of various interpretations of its results.
[5] Know the fundamental postulate on which Einstein based his Special Theory of Relativity, and be able to use that postulate to derive and explain the following SR results:
(i) The relativity of simultaneity
(ii) The effect of time dilation
(iii) The effect of length contraction
(iv) The relativistic addition of velocities
[6] Know what the "Lorentz" or "Gamma" factor is.
[7] Be able to write down (and hence apply!) the Lorentz Transformations.
[8] Be able to discuss a few of the experimental verifications of Special Relativity.
*************************************************
Homework due Thursday, August 28, 2003.
[1] Read Sections 2.1 - 2.8 in Thornton and Rex.
[2] Do Question 8 (p. 74) and Problems 13, 16, 20, & 35 (p. 75) at the end of Chapter 2 in Thornton and Rex.