MetricBrian
- 35
- 0
Is it true that both Newtonian Physics and Relativity express the laws of nature in the form of differential equations?
The discussion centers around the expression of the laws of nature in physics, specifically examining whether both Newtonian Physics and Relativity are represented through differential equations. The scope includes theoretical aspects of physics and mathematical formulations.
Participants generally agree that both Newtonian Physics and Relativity involve differential equations, but there is disagreement regarding the complexity and nature of these equations in Special Relativity compared to General Relativity.
There are unresolved questions regarding the specific types of differential equations used in Special Relativity and how they compare to those in General Relativity. The discussion does not clarify the definitions or assumptions underlying these equations.
Proggle said:Simply put, yes. Even the most innocent equations in Newtonian physics you can think of, for example:
[tex]F=ma[/tex]
are often differential equation in a more general case.
[tex]F= m\frac{d^2 x}{dt^2}[/tex]
General Relativity involves mostly systems of partial differential equations, so that's a no brainer.
Proggle said:Not sure which case you're referring to...
SR has plenty of differential equations involved (the very fact that the velocity of objects is involved in nearly everything in SR would suggest this fact), but not of the type and complexity of GR.