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Physical

Ehrenfest Paradox

A rotating disk appears to contract, creating geometric contradictions

Overview

A relativity paradox about the circumference of a rotating disk.

A disk rotating at relativistic speed has its rim moving at high velocity. Special relativity says the rim length-contracts, so the circumference should decrease. But the radius (perpendicular to motion) doesn't contract. How can C = 2πr still hold?

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