Lorentz Transformation Derived from Relativity of Time

Abstract

The principles of special relativity and Einstein’s simple derivation of the Lorentz transformation are reviewed. A new simple derivation of the Lorentz transformation is developed in this paper, by a new approach of light-pulse observation or time-dilation observation. Therefore, under the two principles of special relativity, there exist two equivalent simple derivations of or two equivalent approaches to the Lorentz transformation. Einstein’s approach emphasizes or highlights relativity of space while our approach emphasizes or highlights relativity of time. This research reveals, in a particular way, the equivalence of relativity of space and relativity of time in special relativity. Combination of Einstein’s approach and the approach developed in this paper makes the methodology of simple derivation of the Lorentz transformation complete and perfect.