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SELF-ASSESSMENT CHECKLIST

I am able to … | Section | Not yet | Nearly there | Ready to move on
understand the term reference frame | 6.1 |  |  |
work with the Galilean transformation equations | 6.1 |  |  |
recite the postulates of the special theory of relativity | 6.1 |  |  |
appreciate the constancy of the speed of light | 6.1 |  |  |
apply the Lorentz transformation equations | 6.1 |  |  |
understand the effects of time dilation and length contraction | 6.2 |  |  |
apply the relativistic velocity addition formula | 6.2 |  |  |
describe how muon decay experiments provide evidence for relativity | 6.2 |  |  |
understand the spacetime interval | 6.3 |  |  |
work with spacetime diagrams | 6.3 |  |  |
describe various events through spacetime diagrams | 6.3 |  |  |

REFLECTION

Do you understand what an inertial reference frame is and can you identify one? Do you understand the postulates of relativity? Can you apply the Lorentz transformation formulas? Do you understand the concepts of time dilation and length contraction? Do you understand how muon decay experiments provide evidence for relativity? Can you find the speed of an object from its worldline on a spacetime diagram? Can you explain time dilation using a spacetime diagram? Can you explain length contraction using a spacetime diagram?

Exam-style Questions

You can find questions in the style of IB exams in the digital coursebook.