Observation of relativistic effects by a single observer: a geometric interpretation using Loedel diagrams.

The apparent length of a relativistically moving rod and visualization of the Einstein time dilation are studied. The description of events in space-time is given geometrically as viewed from two different inertial frames that are in relative motion with one another. These relativistic phenomena are graphically illustrated using one-dimensional Loedel diagrams. The equations that describe these effects are then deduced using elementary geometry. The aim of this paper is to outline a procedure that complements the standard algebraic presentation of these effects, and show that the kinematic concepts of special relativity can be deduced from the geometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]