Calculate the length of a 120m (as measured by the astronaut) spaceship travelling at 0.85c as measured by a stationary observer

The length of the spaceship of 120m was measured at rest relative to the spaceship so we will take that as the proper length, dennoted Lproper
We first calculate the Lorentz factor:
Ɣ = 1/sqrt(1-(v/c)2)
Ɣ = 1/sqrt(1-0.852)
Ɣ = 1.8986... (Keep this number in your calculator as rounding now will affect your final answer)
Now, relate this to the formula for length contraction:
L = Lproper / Ɣ
L = 120/1.8986...
L = 63.2m as measured by the stationary observer

KM
Answered by Kerr M. Physics tutor

4251 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

An object is let in free fall from a platform 20m high above Earth's surface. Describe the event in terms of energy and thus determine the speed of the object when it hits ground. Air resistance is negligible and gravitational acceleration is constant.


A ball of mass 0.7 kg strikes the wall at an angle of 90 degrees with speed 72 km/h. Consider that the bounce lasts for 0.1 s and is perfectly elastic. What is the magnitude of the average reaction force from the wall that acts on the ball?


An ultraviolet wave of continuous frequency reflects from a solid surface back in the direction of the transmitter. Assuming no amplitude is lost, describe and explain the behaviour of the particles in the medium between the transmitter and surface.


Give an example of 3 different types of radiation stating their make up, penetration and ionising effect.


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