Astronaut Spud Nick is space-traveling from planet X to planet Y at a speed of 0.60c relative to the planets,which are at rest relative to each other.When he is precisely halfway between the planets,a distance of 1.0 light-hour from each one as measured in the planet frame,nuclear devices are detonated on each planet.The explosions are simultaneous in the frame of the planets.What is the difference in the time of arrival of the flashes from the explosions as observed by Spud?
A) 300 min
B) 150 min
C) 75 min
D) 0 min
E) 113 min

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The difference in the time of arrival of the flashes from the explosions as observed by Spud Nick can be calculated using the principles of special relativity, specifically the relativity of simultaneity and time dilation. The simultaneity of events in one frame does not imply simultaneity in another frame moving relative to the first. Given Spud's speed and the distances involved, the calculations would show a difference in perception of the timing of the events due to his motion relative to the planets. The exact calculation involves Lorentz transformations, which would yield a result not immediately intuitive from the given options without performing the specific calculations. However, the correct answer, based on the relativistic effects, is 113 minutes.

Astronaut Spud Nick Is Space-Traveling from Planet X to Planet