Lorentz transformation

noun

, Physics.

1. the mathematical transformation in the special theory of relativity that describes the way in which measurements of space, time, and other physical quantities differ for two observers in uniform relative motion.

Lorentz transformation

noun

1. a set of equations relating the coordinates of space and time used by two hypothetical observers in uniform relative motion. According to the special theory of relativity the laws of physics are invariant under this transformation

Lorentz transformation

1. A linear map that expresses the time and space coordinates of one reference frame in terms of those of another one. Much like simple rotations, which leave the lengths of objects unchanged while transforming their coordinates, Lorentz transformations leave unchanged the expression c ²t ² − x ² − y ² − z ², where c is the speed of light, and the other variables are space-time coordinates.
2. ◆ A pure Lorentz transformation , a kind of boost , relates the reference frames of two inertial systems that are moving with a constant relative velocity.
3. ◆ General Lorentz transformations include pure Lorentz transformations as well as rotations of the spatial coordinate system.
4. See also invariance

Word History and Origins

Origin of Lorentz transformation¹

First recorded in 1905–10; named after H. A. Lorentz

Word History and Origins

Origin of Lorentz transformation¹

C20: named after H. A. Lorentz

Example Sentences

The problem of Einstein's relativity is that it has redefined time and space through Lorentz Transformation.

From Nature

The problem of Einstein's relativity is that it has redefined time and space through Lorentz Transformation.

From Nature

The problem of Einstein's relativity is that it has redefined time and space through Lorentz Transformation.

From Nature

The problem of Einstein's relativity is that it has redefined time and space through Lorentz Transformation.

From Nature

The problem of Einstein's relativity is that it has redefined time and space through Lorentz Transformation.

From Nature