FIGURE 29-1
-An object moves in a direction parallel to its length with a velocity that approaches the velocity of light. The width of this object, as measured by a stationary observer,
A) approaches infinity.
B) approaches zero.
C) increases slightly.
D) decreases slightly.
E) does not change.

Question

FIGURE 29-1 
-An object moves in a direction parallel to its length with a velocity that approaches the velocity of light. The width of this object, as measured by a stationary observer,
A) approaches infinity. 
B) approaches zero. 
C) increases slightly. 
D) decreases slightly. 
E) does not change.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the theory of relativity, length contraction only occurs in the direction of motion. Since the width is perpendicular to the direction of motion, it remains unchanged for a stationary observer.

FIGURE 29-1 -An Object Moves in a Direction Parallel to Its Length