Unit 4 Topic 1 - Special relativity

Question 1

Describe an example of natural phenomena that cannot be explained by
Newtonian physics, such as the presence of muons in the atmosphere

Answer 1

huihiu

Question 2

Define the terms frame of reference and inertial frame of reference

Answer 2

huii

Question 3

Recall the two postulates of special relativity

Answer 3

jjiujui

Question 4

Recall that motion can only be measured relative to an observer

Answer 4

jui

Question 5

Explain the concept of simultaneity

Answer 5

jijij

Question 6

Recall the consequences of the constant speed of light in a vacuum, e.g. time
dilation and length contraction

Answer 6

huihi

Question 7

Define the terms time dilation, proper time interval, relativistic time interval,
length contraction, proper length, relativistic length, rest mass and relativistic
momentum

Answer 7

uijiuh

Question 8

Describe the phenomena of time dilation and length contraction, including
examples of experimental evidence of the phenomena

Answer 8

hiuhiu

Question 9

Recall the mass–energy equivalence relationship

Answer 9

jijij

Question 10

Explain why no object can travel at the speed of light in a vacuum

Answer 10

bccie

Question 11

Explain paradoxical scenarios such as the twins’ paradox, flashlights on a train
and the ladder in the barn paradox

Answer 11

huihui