2015/08/08 by Boxiang Liu, Liu, Boxiang, Thushara Perera +1
Physics and Astronomy · #Advanced Mathematical Theories and Applications #Cosmology and Gravitation Theories #FOS: Physical sciences #Physics Education (physics.ed-ph) #Relativity and Gravitational Theory #physics.ed-ph
paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.1508.01968
31 pages, 11 figures
arxiv created 2015/08/08 · openalex publication_date 2015/08/08 · arxiv updated 2015/08/11 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28
We present a comprehensive introduction to the kinematics of special relativity based on Minkowski diagrams and provide a graphical alternative to each and every topic covered in a standard introductory sequence. Compared to existing literature on the subject, our introduction of Minkowski diagrams follows a more structured and contemporary approach. This work also demonstrates new ways in which Minkowski diagrams can be used and draws several new insights from the diagrams constructed. In this regard, the sections that stand out are: 1. the derivation of Lorentz transformations (section IIIA through IIID), 2. the discussion of spacetime (section III F), 3. the derivation of velocity addition rules (section IV C), and 4. the discussion of relativistic paradoxes (section V). Throughout the development, special attention has been placed on the needs and strengths of current undergraduate audiences.