Question: Suppose that a train robber decides to stop a train inside a tunnel. The proper length of the train is 60 m, while the proper

Suppose that a train robber decides to stop a train inside a tunnel. The proper length of the train is 60 m, while the proper length of the tunnel is 50 m. The train is traveling at 4/5 the speed of light. According to proper lengths, the train would not fit inside the tunnel. But the robber plans to use relativity to his advantage. The robber believes, due to length contraction, that he can trap the train inside the tunnel (by simultaneously blocking both ends of the tunnel). The engineer knows that his 60-m train will not fit completely into the tunnel, and does not worry about the robber. The robber thinks that the train will fit, whereas the engineer is sure it will not. Who is correct? Will the train fit inside the tunnel or not? Explain your reasoning.



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