Exam-style question
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If two events occur at the same spatial location in an inertial frame, what is the relationship between proper time and coordinate time?.
- A.proper time equals coordinate time
- B.proper time is greater than coordinate time
- C.proper time is less than coordinate time
- D.proper time is unrelated
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- proper time equals coordinate time
Explanation
Why this works
Formula/rule: Δτ = √(Δt² – (Δx/c)²). Substitution: Δx = 0.
Working: Δτ = √(Δt² – 0) = Δt. Answer: when events share the same position, proper time equals coordinate time.
Units/conclusion: both are measured in seconds.
Common mistake
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