Question

We don't observe space contraction in our every day lives and the reason is

• A. Space contraction is not noticeable until objects approach the speed of light.
• B. Space contraction does not occur until objects approach the speed of light.
• C. Space contraction only occurs in a vacuum.
• D. Space contraction is offset by the effect of gravity.
• E. Acceleration is necessary for length contraction.

Answer 1

The correct option is A Space contraction is not noticeable until objects approach the speed of light.

The contracted length of objects moving relative to an observer with speed $v$ is given by $l^{\prime }=l_0\sqrt{1-(\frac{v}{c}{)}^2}$.

Hence at small speeds $v<<c$, $l^{\prime }\approx l_0$, and hence the space contraction is not noticeable.