Suppose We Discovered Radio Signals Coming from the Star Alpha

question 23

Essay

Suppose we discovered radio signals coming from the star Alpha Centauri, whose distance is 4.4 light-years from us, and we sent a crew in a spacecraft to visit it. If the spacecraft used revolutionary technology allowing it to travel at a speed of 0.5 c, how long would it take the spacecraft to get to Alpha Centauri, and how long a time would the astronauts say passed during the trip? (Ignore the time it would take to accelerate the spacecraft to reach a velocity of 0.5
c.)

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Definitions:

Research Method

Systematic procedures or strategies used to conduct studies and gather data in various fields of study.

Hypothesis

An initial explanation suggested for a phenomenon, intended as a basis for additional research.

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Individual life events or encounters that contribute to one's unique perspective and personality development.

Social Psychologist

A professional in psychology who studies how an individual's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by the actual, imagined, or implied presence of others.