E =mc{squared} How Did He Arrive At This ?

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on the derivation and implications of Einstein's equation E=mc², emphasizing the relationship between energy and mass. Participants argue that while units are human constructs, the underlying physical relationships are significant. They clarify that Einstein's equation is not merely a guess but a result of applying Lorentz transformations to kinematic equations. The discussion also touches on the arbitrary nature of units and the importance of consistency in their application.

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  • Understanding of Einstein's theory of relativity
  • Familiarity with Lorentz transformations
  • Basic knowledge of physics units (SI units)
  • Concept of proportionality in mathematical equations
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  • Study the derivation of E=mc² through Lorentz transformations
  • Explore the implications of mass-energy equivalence in modern physics
  • Learn about the significance of SI units in scientific measurements
  • Investigate the historical context of Einstein's theories and their acceptance
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in the foundational concepts of relativity and the relationship between mass and energy.

  • #31
whozum said:
I remember he rejected a major part of his discoveries, but I don't remember which. He refused to believe, I think that the universe was expanding.

You're thinking of his original model of the universe that included a cosmological constant. He later said it was a mistake to include it because the observations showed an expanding universe. This implied that he believed those observations. However, I think he had a problem with black holes. I'm not an expert on the history.


Why is this? Science is absolute is it not? Once you prove something, its proven and should be accepted?

He didn't prove that his theory applied to all situations. It probably doesn't. Newton's certainly didn't.
 

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