About this Simulation

This interactive simulation models length contraction as objects approach the speed of light. Learners visualize how the Lorentz transformation predicts that moving objects appear shorter in their direction of motion. By adjusting velocity and observing real-time changes in object length, students explore the counterintuitive effects of Einstein's special relativity theory.

Learning objectives: Understand how relative velocity affects spatial measurements in different reference frames | Apply Lorentz transformation equations to calculate length contraction | Investigate the relationship between speed and observed object dimensions