Q16 · 2020 · Paper 1Simple familiar1 mark
QUESTION 16
According to the theory of special relativity, the concept of simultaneity is best described as
(A)
when two events occur at the same time.
(B)
when an observer sees two events occurring at the same time.
(C)
two events observed to happen at the same time in a particular frame of reference.
(D)
the relation between two events assumed to happen at the same time when observed from any frame of reference.
WORKED SOLUTION
1 markAnswer C
ANSWER
C
Worked solution
Simultaneity is frame-dependent: two events can be simultaneous in one inertial frame but not in another. Option C states this dependence on a particular frame of reference.
Selects option C.
Worked explanation by QCE Vault; correct option verified against the QCAA answer key.