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

4340 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

A positively charged particle enters a magnetic field oriented perpendicular to its direction of motion. Does the particle: A) Change its velocity, B) Change its speed, C) Accelerate in the direction of the magnetic field.


Explain the advantages of a reflecting telescope compared to a refracting telescope


A car is travelling at 20 m/s. The accelerator is applied, causing an acceleration of 2m/s^s. How fast is the car travelling after 10 seconds of acceleration?


How does the photoelectric effect provide evidence for a particulate nature of electromagnetic radiation?


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