What is the theory of relativity?

In summary, the Theorey of relativity states that there is no absolute movement, only relative movement between frames. This is part of relativity and is not exclusive to special and general relativity, as it also applies to classical mechanics. Experimentally, there is no way to distinguish between the two options, and the interpretation of Lorentz Ether Theory is generally not used in modern relativity. Therefore, the assumption of absolute movement is not considered meaningful in the context of relativity.
  • #1
Ross Arden
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Is the Theorey of relativity that there is no absolute movement, only movement of one frame relative to another or that there is absolute movement but we cannot measure it ?
 
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  • #2
What would be the difference?

As I understand it, the former is vanilla SR; the latter is Lorentz Ether Theory. The latter is generally deprecated because it has an extra assumption, but it makes no difference to the maths.
 
  • #3
This is part of relativity, yes. But it is not exclusive to special and general relativity as it is also the case in classical mechanics.
 
  • #4
Ross Arden said:
Is the Theorey of relativity that there is no absolute movement, only movement of one frame relative to another or that there is absolute movement but we cannot measure it ?

Experimentally, the two are indistinguishable, and there is an interpretation of special relativity that takes the second option; however, that interpretation (usually referred to as "Lorentz Ether Theory") is not used in modern SR and is not a suitable topic for discussion here:

https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/pfs-policy-on-lorentz-ether-theory-and-block-universe/
 
  • #5
so if you have three space ships one pointing along the x axis, one on the y-axis and one on the z axis and then they all blast off, surely the assumption can credibly be made that one of them must be moving in an absolute sense, not in a relative sense?
 
  • #6
Depends on whether or not "absolute motion" means anything. Vanilla SR says it doesn't.
 
  • #7
Ross Arden said:
surely the assumption can credibly be made that one of them must be moving in an absolute sense

You can make this assumption, but since it has no experimental consequences at all, there's no point.
 
  • #8
Closing this thread as discussions of LET are out of bounds, per the link already provided.
 

1. What is the theory of relativity?

The theory of relativity is a scientific theory developed by Albert Einstein in the early 20th century. It explains the relationship between space and time, and how they are affected by gravity. There are two main parts of the theory: the special theory of relativity, which deals with objects moving at a constant speed, and the general theory of relativity, which includes the effects of gravity on space and time.

2. What is the difference between the special and general theory of relativity?

The special theory of relativity deals with objects moving at a constant speed, while the general theory of relativity includes the effects of gravity on space and time. The special theory of relativity also introduces the concept of time dilation, where time appears to pass slower for objects moving at high speeds. The general theory of relativity explains how gravity is not a force, but rather the curvature of space and time caused by massive objects.

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

Albert Einstein developed the theory of relativity through a series of thought experiments and mathematical equations. He was inspired by the work of other scientists, such as James Clerk Maxwell and Isaac Newton, and the concept of the constancy of the speed of light. He also conducted experiments and observations that supported his theories, such as the bending of starlight by the sun's gravity during a solar eclipse.

4. What are the implications of the theory of relativity?

The theory of relativity has had a significant impact on our understanding of the universe and has led to many technological advancements, such as GPS systems and nuclear energy. It also challenges our traditional concepts of space, time, and gravity, and has opened up new avenues for research and exploration in the fields of physics and astronomy.

5. Is the theory of relativity proven?

The theory of relativity has been extensively tested and confirmed through experiments and observations. However, like all scientific theories, it is subject to further testing and refinement. It has also been successfully used to make accurate predictions, such as the bending of light by gravity and the existence of black holes. Overall, the evidence strongly supports the validity of the theory of relativity.

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