Relativistic velocity space, Wigner rotation, and Thomas precession
Abstract
We develop a relativistic velocity space called rapidity space from the single assumption of Lorentz invariance, and use it to visualize and calculate effects resulting from the successive application of non-collinear Lorentz boosts. In particular, we show how rapidity space provides a geometric approach to Wigner rotation and Thomas precession in the same way that space-time provides a geometrical approach to kinematic effects in special relativity.
- Publication:
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American Journal of Physics
- Pub Date:
- July 2004
- DOI:
- arXiv:
- arXiv:gr-qc/0501070
- Bibcode:
- 2004AmJPh..72..943R
- Keywords:
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- 01.50.-i;
- 03.30.+p;
- 02.40.-k;
- Educational aids;
- Special relativity;
- Geometry differential geometry and topology;
- General Relativity and Quantum Cosmology;
- Mathematical Physics;
- Physics - Classical Physics
- E-Print:
- see journal article for more information