Einstein's 'Relativity: The special and general theory'

In summary, the conversation is about sharing a version of Einstein's book on Relativity that has been translated and typeset in latex by Ron Burkey. The book can be downloaded for free and one person questions if it is a good book for beginners. Others suggest newer and more comprehensive books on the topic.
  • #1
Sybren
53
0
Hi everybody,

I wanted to share with you a nice version of Einstein's book 'Relativity: the special and general theory'. It is the translation of Robert Lawson, but this time typeset completely in latex by Ron Burkey. The PDF can be downloaded for free at the following link:

http://www.sandroid.org/GutenMark/wasftp.GutenMark/MarkedTexts/EinsteinRelativity.pdf

Enjoy it
 
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  • #2
Thanks very much for the link.

Not to discount the historical significance, but is this a good book for beginners to learn from? I grant that the author has some knowledge of the subject, and his intention is to make it accessible to laymen, but have there been better books in the last 90 years?
 
  • #3
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  • #4
Thanks for the links; the book by Schutz looks especially good. Seems like if Einstein was so smart, he could have included some Java programs in his book.
 
  • #5
!

Hello,

Thank you for sharing this version of Einstein's book. It is always fascinating to read and learn from the works of great scientists like Einstein. His theory of relativity has had a profound impact on our understanding of the universe and has been confirmed through numerous experiments and observations. I appreciate the effort that went into typesetting the book in latex, making it more accessible and visually appealing. I will definitely take a look at the PDF and continue to learn from Einstein's groundbreaking theories. Thank you again for sharing this resource.
 

1. What is the difference between special and general relativity?

Special relativity deals with the relationship between space and time in the absence of gravity, while general relativity includes the effects of gravity on the fabric of spacetime.

2. How did Einstein come up with the theory of relativity?

Einstein developed his theory of relativity through a series of thought experiments and mathematical calculations, building upon the work of previous scientists like Isaac Newton and James Clerk Maxwell.

3. Can you explain the concept of time dilation in relativity?

In relativity, time dilation refers to the phenomenon where time appears to pass more slowly for an object moving at high speeds compared to one at rest. This is due to the fact that time and space are relative and can be affected by the speed and gravitational pull of an object.

4. How has relativity been proven or tested?

Relativity has been proven and tested through various experiments and observations, such as the bending of light around massive objects like stars, the slowing down of time for objects in motion, and the accuracy of predictions made by the theory.

5. Can relativity be applied to everyday life?

Yes, relativity has many practical applications in everyday life, such as the functioning of GPS systems, the understanding of nuclear energy, and the behavior of objects in space. It has also led to advancements in technology and our understanding of the universe.

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