A Classical Analog for Relativistic Contraction

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
It is possible to construct a mechanical model which demonstrates the Fitzgerald contraction. An equation is derived to describe the shape of a dimple moving across an elastic membrane, clearly showing the analogy to the field of a point charge in free space, including the relativistic contraction in the direction of motion. This model should suggest some reason to the inquiring mind that persists in wondering—“what really makes it shrink”.

This publication has 0 references indexed in Scilit: