Exam-style question
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Which factor determines the amount of length contraction?.
- A.Mass of the object
- B.Speed relative to the observer
- C.Temperature
- D.Gravitational field
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Speed relative to the observer
Explanation
Why this works
Formula/rule: L = L0 √(1 – v²/c²). Substitution: v is the relative speed.
Working: The contraction factor √(1 – v²/c²) depends solely on v; mass, temperature, and gravity do not appear. Answer: Only the relative speed controls contraction.
Units/conclusion: Contraction is a function of velocity.
Common mistake
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