length contraction
[/leŋθ kənˈtrækʃən/]
nounpl: length contractions
contração do comprimento
1. A phenomenon in special relativity where an object moving at relativistic speeds appears shorter in the direction of motion when measured by a stationary observer
According to Einstein's theory of special relativity, length contraction occurs as an object approaches the speed of light.
De acordo com a teoria da relatividade especial de Einstein, a contração do comprimento ocorre quando um objeto se aproxima da velocidade da luz.
2. The reduction in measured length of a moving body along its direction of motion relative to an observer at rest
The length contraction factor depends on the object's velocity relative to the observer's frame of reference.
O fator de contração do comprimento depende da velocidade do objeto em relação ao referencial do observador.
Length contraction is a fundamental concept in special relativity taught in physics courses worldwide. It represents a counterintuitive aspect of Einstein's theory that challenges classical Newtonian mechanics. The term is used identically in both Brazilian Portuguese and European Portuguese academic contexts, reflecting the universal nature of physics terminology in the scientific community.
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