A spaceship travels to a distant star at relativistic speed. As measured by observers on Earth, the trip takes 1.8 years and covers a distance of 1.5 light years. Which of the following statements about the distance to the star is correct? The proper length is longer than 1.5 light years. The proper length is equal to 1.5 light years. The proper length is shorter than 1.5 light years.

Principles of Physics: A Calculus-Based Text
5th Edition
ISBN:9781133104261
Author:Raymond A. Serway, John W. Jewett
Publisher:Raymond A. Serway, John W. Jewett
Chapter9: Relativity
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 59P: Spacecraft I, containing students taking a physics exam, approaches the Earth with a speed of 0.600c...
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A spaceship travels to a distant star at relativistic speed. As measured by observers on Earth, the trip takes 1.8 years and covers a distance of 1.5 light years. Which of the following statements about the distance to the star is correct?

  • The proper length is longer than 1.5 light years.
  • The proper length is equal to 1.5 light years.
  • The proper length is shorter than 1.5 light years.
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