IB Physics HL A.5.8 Space-time interval Question Bank

Practise IB Physics HL A.5.8 by applying space-time interval concepts to exam-style physics questions.

Exam points

[Maximum number: 3]

The space-time diagram shows the coordinate axes (x, c t) of an inertial reference frame S. Two events, P and Q, are plotted.

(a)

Calculate the space-time interval $(\Delta s)^{2}$ between P and Q .

[ 2 ]

Correct readoffs $\Delta x=3 \mathrm{~m}, c \Delta t=1 \mathrm{~m}$ $(\Delta s)^{2}=\ll 1^{2}-3^{2}=>-8 \mathrm{~m}^{2}$

Marking guidance:

Ignore units as they are not required for the answer.

Do not award MP2 if the answer is positive

(b)

$(\Delta s)^{2}$ is an invariant quantity. Outline what is meant by an invariant quantity.

[ 1 ]

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