A cosmic-ray muon travels at a speed of 0.994c0.994c0.994c relative to an observer on Earth.
The muon travels a distance of 8.4×103 m8.4 \times 10^3 \text{ m}8.4×103 m through the atmosphere, measured in the Earth's frame of reference, from its point of creation to the surface.
Calculate the distance between these two points in the frame of reference of the muon.
Measurements of muons created by cosmic rays can be used to demonstrate relativistic time dilation.
State the measurements made and the observation that provides evidence for relativistic time dilation.
As the muons travel through the atmosphere, their speeds are reduced by interaction with the particles in the air.
Discuss, with reference to relativity, the effect that this reduction of speed has on the rate of detection of the muons on the surface of the Earth.
22 exam-style questions on AQA A Level Physics Special relativity (A-level only), covering The Michelson-Morley experiment (A-level only), Einstein's theory of special relativity (A-level only), Time dilation (A-level only), Length contraction (A-level only), and Mass and energy (A-level only). Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.