Two observers in different inertial reference frames moving relative to each other at nearly the speed of light see the same two events but, using precise equipment, record different time intervals between the two events. Which of the following is true of their measurements?

(a) One observer is incorrect, but it is impossible to tell which one.

(b) One observer is incorrect, and it is possible to tell which one.

(c) Both observers are incorrect.

(d) Both observers are correct.

Question

Cassidy Ramsey

Physics

19 August, 23:43

Two observers in different inertial reference frames moving relative to each other at nearly the speed of light see the same two events but, using precise equipment, record different time intervals between the two events. Which of the following is true of their measurements?

(a) One observer is incorrect, but it is impossible to tell which one.

(b) One observer is incorrect, and it is possible to tell which one.

(c) Both observers are incorrect.

(d) Both observers are correct.

+4

Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

India Mueller · Answer 1

The correct answer is d Both the observer's are correct

Explanation:

We know by postulates of relativity that laws of physics are same in different inertial frames.

Thus for each of the frames they make observations related to their frames and since the observations are true for their individual frames they both are correct. But when we compare the two frames we need to use transformation equations to compare both the results.