Skip navigation

Search ETDs:

More Like This | More search options

Export: Refworks Refworks | RIS

Accompanying files:
brightness.mov (1.89 MB MOV file)
clocks.mov (0.82 MB MOV file)
clocks2.mov (1.04 MB MOV file)
combined.mov (2.66 MB MOV file)
doppler.mov (1.32 MB MOV file)
penrose.mov (411.73 kB MOV file)
policeman.mov (1.33 MB MOV file)
start-sign.mov (2.85 MB MOV file)
wall.mov (3.76 MB MOV file)

Relative Reality

Main text: PDF ohiou1016207660.pdf
526.83 kB PDF file – See additional files at right

Degree
Master of Science (MS), Ohio University, Physics (Arts and Sciences), .
Abstract

The consequences of Einstein’s Special Theory of Relativity are explored in an imaginary world where the speed of light is only 10 m/s. Emphasis is placed on phenomena experienced by a solitary observer: the aberration of light, the Doppler effect, the alteration of the perceived power of incoming light, and the perception of time. Modified ray-tracing software and other visualization tools are employed to create a video that brings this imaginary world to life. The process of creating the video is detailed, including an annotated copy of the final script. Some of the less explored aspects of relativistic travel – discovered in the process of generating the video – are discussed, such as the perception of going backwards when actually accelerating from rest along the forward direction.

Subject Headings
Physics, General
Keywords
Special Relativity; Visual appearance; Aberration of light; Doppler Effect
Advisor
David Onley
Pages
41p.

Document number: ohiou1016207660
Permalink:

This ETD has been downloaded 456 times (through March 2013)