The graph above shows the relativity of space. Suppose that Velma observes Mort's automobile as she passes it at 60% of lightspeed. She passes lengthwise over the automobile. Mort's automobile is 4 meters long as measured by Mort. How long is it as measured by Velma?
A) 3.2 meters
B) 3.2c meters
C) 0.8c meters
D) 0.8 meter
E) 4 meters

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the theory of relativity, length contraction occurs when an object is moving relative to an observer. The formula for length contraction is L = L0 * sqrt(1 - v^2/c^2), where L0 is the proper length, v is the velocity, and c is the speed of light. Plugging in the values, L = 4 * sqrt(1 - (0.6)^2) = 4 * sqrt(0.64) = 4 * 0.8 = 3.2 meters.

The Graph Above Shows the Relativity of Space