The Lorentz transformation

Special Relativity and Electrodynamics (Spring, 2012)

Lecture Playlist

  1. The Lorentz transformation

  2. Adding velocities

  3. Relativistic laws of motion and E = mc^2^

  4. Classical field theory

  5. Particles and fields

  6. The Lorentz force law

  7. The fundamental principles of physical laws

  8. Maxwell's equations

  9. Lagrangian for Maxwell's equations

  10. Connection between classical mechanics and field theory

April 9, 2012

In the first lecture of the course Professor Susskind introduces the original principle of relativity - also known as Galilean Invariance - and discusses inertial reference frames and simultaneity. He then derives the Lorentz transformation of special relativity following the method in Einstein's original paper [check this], and introduces length contraction and time dilation, invariants, and space- and time-like intervals.

Topics: 
  • The principle of relativity
  • Reference frames
  • Simultaneity
  • Derivation of the Lorentz transformation
  • Speed of light is independent of reference frame
  • Length contraction and time dilation
  • Invariant intervals
  • Space-like and time-like intervals
References