An Observer Sees Two Spaceships, S₁ and S₂, Each Having

question 29

Essay

An observer sees two spaceships, S₁ and S₂, each having the same length in its own rest frame, traveling toward each other along parallel lines from opposite directions, with equal speeds relative to the observer. As seen by this observer, the two spaceships have the same length and, when they are next to each other, the nose of one coincides with the tail of the other, and vice-versa. However, as seen by passengers on either one of the spaceships, the other spaceship is shorter than their own, so if the tail of the other spaceship is in line with the nose of their spaceship, the nose of the other spaceship cannot be lined up with the tail of theirs. How can you explain this discrepancy?

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Definitions:

Microsleeps

Very brief episodes of sleep that can occur when an individual is apparently awake, often resulting from sleep deprivation.

Sleep Deprivation

refers to the condition of not getting enough sleep, which can affect memory, cognition, and physical health.

Frontal Lobe

The region of the brain located at the front of each cerebral hemisphere, responsible for decision making, problem-solving, control of purposeful behaviors, consciousness, and emotions.

Sleep Duration

The total amount of time spent sleeping, including all stages of sleep, within a 24-hour period.