2006-11-10 22:15:26 · 3 answers · asked by sharath 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
It actually does contract in the frame of reference of a non-comoving observer. The lorentz transformations of time and length are simple algebraic consequences of assuming a fixed speed of light for all observers in all frames.
The assumption you are really questioning is actually either 1) why the speed of light is fixed in all frames. This is actually an empirical observation, not an assumption or 2) algebra works. (Yes, you can actually derive all of special relativity doing nothing more than making the speed of light assumption and using quadratic algebra!)
2006-11-12 10:32:28 · answer #1 · answered by Mr. Quark 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It's not really an assumption, and it is not really a change in the shape of the object. The Lorentz contraction is a calculated effect of the Einstein's Special theory of relativity. Under his theory, the legnth of an object will APPEAR to contract to an observer moving at near-light speed relative to the object. If you we traveling at the same speed as the object, you would not observe any distortion in its shape.
2006-11-11 07:58:54 · answer #2 · answered by NotEasilyFooled 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
to understand this, u would have to understand the Theory of Relativity by Albert Einstein.
2006-11-11 08:00:07 · answer #3 · answered by amandac 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋