Physics · Advanced university
Minkowski interval in one spatial dimension · formula reference
Use the (+,−) sign convention. A negative result is spacelike, not an arithmetic error.
Formula
Use the (+,−) sign convention. A negative result is spacelike, not an arithmetic error.
s² = (cΔt)² − (Δx)²
Worked example
Two events have cΔt=9 m and Δx=2 m, with no y or z separation. Using s²=(cΔt)²−(Δx)², calculate s². Round the final result to 4 decimal places if needed. Answer in m².
Square the time-distance and subtract the squared spatial separation: 9²−2².
77 m²
Prerequisites and checking
Algebra, calculus and the stated physical model. Keep units and rounding consistent. State the model conditions before applying the formula.
Further reading and review references
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