Objectives and Homework for September 2, 2004.
[1] Understand the Michelson-Morley Experiment, what it implies, and why. Be able to discuss the pros and cons of various interpretations of its results.
[2] Be able to write down (and hence apply!) the Lorentz Transformations.
[3] Know what the "Lorentz" or "Gamma" factor is.
[4] 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:
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The relativity of simultaneity |
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The effect of time dilation |
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The effect of length contraction |
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The relativistic addition of velocities |
[5] Be able to discuss a few of the experimental verifications of Special Relativity.
[6] Be able to construct and interpret spacetime diagrams.
Homework due Tuesday, September 7, 2004.
[1] Read Sections 2.5 - 2.8 in Thornton and Rex.
[2] Do Problems 20, 30, 35, 37, 41, 44, & 57 (pp. 76-77) at the end of Chapter 2 in Thornton and Rex.