A stationary observer Bob, observes Alice take 5 seconds to travel from point A to B at 0.95c. How much time does Alice measure the journey from A to B to take?

This question is all about the application of Special Relativity. In order to solve this problem we need to identify that the correct equation to use here is:t= (gamma factor)t0Where t is the time observed by Bob, t0 is the time observed by Alice and the gamma factor = 1/Sqrt(1-(v2/c2)We need to rearrange the equation for t0, giving t0=t/(gamma factor) t0= t(Sqrt(1-(v2/c2))Subsituting t =5 s, v = 0.95c, we obtain:t0=(5 s)(Sqrt(1-0.952))t0 = 1.56 s

ER
Answered by Elizabeth R. Physics tutor

3338 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain how and why the diffraction pattern of electrons passing through a slit depends on their momentum.


What is the Strong Nuclear Force?


A nucleus of the stable isotope Pb(208,82) has more neutrons than protons. Explain why there is this imbalance between proton and neutron numbers by referring to the forces that operate within the nucleus.


How does conservation of momentum work when at least one of the bodies in the problem changes mass?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning