Free Length Contraction Calculator
Calculate relativistic length contraction: L = L0 * sqrt(1 - v^2/c^2), the shortened length as seen by a stationary observer.
m
m/s
Contracted Length
43.602761 m
Length Reduction (%)56.3972 %
Contracted Length vs Proper Length (L0)
Lorentz Length Contraction
Objects moving at relativistic speeds appear shorter in the direction of motion.
Formula
L = L0 * sqrt(1 - v^2/c^2) = L0 / gamma
Contraction occurs only along the direction of motion. Transverse dimensions are unaffected.
Example Calculation
A 100 m spaceship at 0.9c.
- 01beta = 0.9, gamma = 2.294
- 02L = L0 / gamma = 100 / 2.294
- 03L = 43.59 m
- 04The ship appears 56.4% shorter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn More
Understanding Newton's Laws of Motion
A comprehensive guide to Newton's three laws of motion. Learn about inertia, force and acceleration, action-reaction pairs, and how these principles govern everyday physics.