Exam-style question
Try this first
In which direction does length contraction occur?.
- A.Perpendicular to motion
- B.Parallel to motion
- C.Both directions
- D.None
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Parallel to motion
Explanation
Why this works
Formula/rule: L = L0 √(1 – v²/c²). Substitution: v is the speed along the direction of motion.
Working: The contraction factor applies only to the component of length along v; perpendicular components remain unchanged. Answer: Contraction occurs only in the direction of relative motion.
Units/conclusion: Length is reduced only parallel to the motion.
Common mistake
No common mistake is linked to this question yet.