Light and Special Relativity (HSC SSCE Physics): Flashcards

Viewpoint from which observer measures and describes motion

Frame that is stationary or moving at constant velocity

Frame that is accelerating or changing direction

Spaceship at constant velocity; table on ground; cruising plane

Merry-go-round; accelerating plane; car cornering

$x = x' + vDelta t$

Invariant - passes at same rate in all frames

Same in all inertial frames of reference

All are equivalent - no privileged or absolute frame

$\vec{v}_{\text{AB}} = \vec{v}_{\text{AC}} + \vec{v}_{\text{CB}}$