The validity of classical physics (split from: DWFTTW)

In summary, the discussion on the validity of classical physics has prompted the creation of a split thread to focus on the use of alternate inertial reference frames and other related topics such as the special nature of motion relative to the ground and the absolute value of kinetic energy. The laws of motion presented by Newton do not require an absolute reference for position or velocity, and the concept of inertia allows for the investigation of physical systems in a chosen inertial frame. However, the opposing view on the special nature of motion and kinetic energy has not garnered much response from other posters.
  • #1
ajaybali
2
0
The purpose of this post is to present the established tenets of classical physics and to create a point where this thread can be split if there is still disagreement as to the validity of these tenets.

If the participants in this thread agree to the split, all further discussion of the validity of alternate inertial reference frames, the special nature of an Earth based reference, the treatment of Kinetic energy being an absolute property of an object and not relative to the frame of reference and any other claims that invalidate classical physics shall be split to the new thread.

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Title: The validity of classical physics [split from Down Wind Faster Than The Wind]

In Newton's laws of motion, there is no factor of an absolute reference for position or velocity.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newton's_laws_of_motion
Quote:
First law
It is possible to select a set of reference frames, called inertial reference frames, observed from which a particle moves without any change in velocity if no net force acts on it. This law is often simplified into the sentence "A body continues to maintain its state of rest or of uniform motion unless acted upon by an external unbalanced force." This law is known as the law of inertia.
Second law
Observed from an inertial reference frame, the net force on a particle is proportional to the time rate of change of its linearmomentum: F = d (mv) / dt. Momentum mv is the product of mass and velocity. Force and momentum are vectorquantities and the resultant force is found from all the forces present by vector addition. This law is often stated as "F = ma: the net force on an object is equal to the mass of the object multiplied by its acceleration."
Third law
Whenever a particle A exerts a force on another particle B, B simultaneously exerts a force on A with the same magnitude in the opposite direction. The strong form of the law further postulates that these two forces act along the same line. This law is often simplified into the sentence "To every action there is an equal and opposite reaction."
This means that we can investigate the behavior of physical systems in an equivalent inertial frame that is chosen to be more convenient. For instance, the physics of a vehicle traveling down a straight level road with a tail wind can be investigated by placing that vehicle on a similar surface that is moving at a constant velocity relative to the observer so that the same effective tail wind will not be moving relative to the observer and the vehicle when traveling at the speed of the tail wind will also not be moving relative to the observer.

This split thread has been created to discuss the validity of using alternate inertial reference frames to examine or model classical physical interactions [between the limits where relativity and quantum effects are significant] and related topics such as motion relative to the ground being somehow special and kinetic energy having a specific value independent from the frame of reference. I don't understand the contrary view so I'll let the other posters present their side.
 
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  • #2
ajaybali said:
... such as motion relative to the ground being somehow special and kinetic energy having a specific value independent from the frame of reference.
Is this what you call "the contrary view"? If so, I don't think you will find many adherents which probably explains the lack of responses to your split thread.
 

1. What is classical physics?

Classical physics is a branch of physics that deals with the laws of motion and the behavior of matter and energy in macroscopic systems. It encompasses classical mechanics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetism.

2. Is classical physics still valid?

Yes, classical physics is still valid and has been the foundation of many technological advancements. It accurately describes the motion of objects at everyday speeds and scales.

3. How does classical physics differ from quantum physics?

Classical physics describes the behavior of objects at macroscopic scales, while quantum physics deals with the behavior of particles at the microscopic level. Classical physics follows deterministic principles, while quantum physics introduces probability and uncertainty.

4. What are the limitations of classical physics?

Classical physics fails to accurately describe the behavior of objects at extremely high speeds, as predicted by Einstein's theory of relativity. It also cannot explain the behavior of very small particles, as described by quantum mechanics.

5. Can classical physics and quantum physics be reconciled?

There have been attempts to reconcile classical physics and quantum physics, such as the theory of quantum mechanics. However, there are still fundamental differences between the two, and a complete reconciliation has not been achieved yet.

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