1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
A photon near the surface of the Earth travels a horizontal distance of 3 km. How far (in meters) does the photon 'fall' in this time? (Hint: think equivalence principle).
2. Relevant equations
N/A
3. The attempt at a solution
My understanding of the equivalence principle is that experiments carried out in a 'free fall' frame will have the same results as an experiment done floating in space (far from a large body). I'm confused because the photon near the surface of earth is in neither of these situations -- so would the answer be that it doesn't 'fall' at all? I would expect it to travel horizontally only.
Thanks.
A photon near the surface of the Earth travels a horizontal distance of 3 km. How far (in meters) does the photon 'fall' in this time? (Hint: think equivalence principle).
2. Relevant equations
N/A
3. The attempt at a solution
My understanding of the equivalence principle is that experiments carried out in a 'free fall' frame will have the same results as an experiment done floating in space (far from a large body). I'm confused because the photon near the surface of earth is in neither of these situations -- so would the answer be that it doesn't 'fall' at all? I would expect it to travel horizontally only.
Thanks.
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