The Paradigm of Projectile Motion and its Consequences for Special Relativity. Making Sense of Physics

TL;DR

This paper proposes a novel interpretation of special relativity phenomena, such as space contraction and time dilation, based on kinetic energy differences rather than velocity, addressing conceptual issues rooted in traditional projectile motion paradigms.

Contribution

It introduces a reinterpretation of projectile motion emphasizing kinetic energy, offering a new perspective on relativistic effects and resolving longstanding conceptual muddles.

Findings

Kinetic energy differences explain space contraction.

Time dilation can be understood through energy considerations.

Reinterpretation clarifies conceptual issues in relativity.

Abstract

A new explanation for space contraction and time dilation in special relativity is offered based on kinetic energy differences between observers rather than velocity differences. The classical (Newtonian) concept of projectile motion underwent a series of seemingly minor changes and adjustments between the discovery of the quantum (Planck, 1900) and the early codification of quantum theory (Dirac, 1928). The goal of physicists in this period was to keep change to a minimum and preserve as much as possible of the traditional projectile paradigm (TPP). These adjustments were successful in masking an all-out projectile paradigm crisis, but they have left us with a conceptual muddle. This has been especially deleterious for special relativity and our understanding of space contraction and time dilation. A reinterpretation of projectile motion focusing on kinetic energy permits a new understanding of relativistic space contraction and time dilation.