Theories of relativity and the resulting E = MC^2

In summary, Einstein's greatest insight was not his theories of relativity and E = MC^2, but rather his idea that time is not fixed and can run infinitely slow or fast. This concept is more significant than the suggestion of an edge in the universe following the Big Bang, as the topology of spacetime described by the Big Bang does not necessarily imply a bounded universe. The acceleration of the universe's expansion also does not necessarily mean that time at the edge is faster than at the Big Bang. It is important to understand conventional theories before developing new ones.
  • #1
LitleBang
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Einstein"s theories of relativity and the resulting E = MC^2, although extremely important to physics, was not his greatest insight. His idea that time is not fixed, that it can run infinitely slow or possibly infinitely fast was the most important.

If there was a Big Bang, that suggests at one second after the BB then the universe had an edge. If that is true then the universe should have an edge now. The universe is expanding at an accelerated rate. Doesn't that imply that time at the edge now is much faster than at the BB?
 
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  • #2


No, the topology of spacetime described by the big bang does not imply a bounded universe, even if the universe is finite. Consider a 2-sphere, it has a finite surface area, but no edges.
 
  • #3


LitleBang said:
His idea that time is not fixed, that it can run infinitely slow or possibly infinitely fast was the most important.

I don't think he would agree with that.

LitleBang said:
If there was a Big Bang, that suggests at one second after the BB then the universe had an edge.

Not necessarily.


LitleBang said:
If that is true then the universe should have an edge now.

Again, not necessarily.

LitleBang said:
The universe is expanding at an accelerated rate. Doesn't that imply that time at the edge now is much faster than at the BB?

Not really.

I would suggest that it's probably better to learn what conventional theory says before theorizing yourself.
 
  • #4


Also:
LitleBang said:
Einstein"s theories of relativity and the resulting E = MC^2, although extremely important to physics, was not his greatest insight. His idea that time is not fixed, that it can run infinitely slow or possibly infinitely fast was the most important.
The second is a component of the first!
 

1. What is the theory of relativity?

The theory of relativity is a scientific theory proposed by Albert Einstein in the early 20th century, which revolutionized our understanding of space and time. It consists of two main parts: the special theory of relativity, which deals with objects moving at constant speeds, and the general theory of relativity, which includes acceleration and gravity.

2. How does the theory of relativity affect our understanding of the universe?

The theory of relativity has had a profound impact on our understanding of the universe. It has shown that space and time are not absolute, but are relative concepts that depend on the observer's frame of reference. It has also led to the discovery of new phenomena, such as time dilation and the bending of light by gravity.

3. What is the equation E = MC^2 and how does it relate to the theory of relativity?

E = MC^2 is the famous equation proposed by Albert Einstein in his theory of special relativity. It states that energy (E) is equal to the mass (M) of an object multiplied by the speed of light squared (C^2). This equation shows the relationship between mass and energy, and how they are interchangeable. It has been confirmed by numerous experiments and is the basis for nuclear energy and the development of atomic bombs.

4. What are some real-world applications of the theory of relativity and E = MC^2?

The theory of relativity and E = MC^2 have numerous real-world applications. They are used in GPS systems, as the theory accounts for the time dilation effects of satellites orbiting the Earth. It also plays a crucial role in the development of nuclear energy and particle accelerators. Additionally, the theory has been used to explain cosmic phenomena, such as the bending of light by massive objects in space.

5. Is the theory of relativity and E = MC^2 still relevant in modern science?

Absolutely. The theory of relativity and E = MC^2 are still considered to be some of the most fundamental and accurate theories in modern science. They have been extensively tested and have consistently been shown to accurately describe the behavior of the universe. In fact, many modern technologies, such as GPS systems and nuclear energy, rely on the principles of these theories.

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