All Problems

Relativistic Mechanics

Problem 1.360

Two rods having the same proper length l0l_{0} move lengthwise toward each other parallel to a common axis with the same velocity vv relative to the laboratory frame of reference. What is the length of each rod in the reference frame fixed to the other rod?

Reveal Answer
l=l0(1−β2)/(1+β2), where β=v/cl=l_{0}\left(1-\beta^{2}\right) /\left(1+\beta^{2}\right), \text { where } \beta=v / c
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