Lorentz factor

\gamma=\dfrac{1}{\sqrt{1-v^2/c^2}}

Result unit: — (dimensionless, ≥ 1)

What it describes

A dimensionless factor describing relativistic effects; it grows to infinity as the speed approaches the speed of light.

\gamma

Lorentz factor

v

speed of the body

[m/s]

c

speed of light

[m/s]

The key coefficient of special relativity — for small speeds

\gamma\approx1

(classical physics), but at speeds close to

c

it grows sharply, amplifying time dilation and length contraction.

All relativistic effects at high speeds.

Calculate the Lorentz factor for

v=0.6c

Substitution

v^2/c^2=0.36

Result

\gamma=\dfrac{1}{\sqrt{1-0.36}}=\dfrac{1}{0.8}=1.25

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