Explain how postulates are synthesized into Special Relativity?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on the synthesis of the two postulates of special relativity: that the laws of physics are consistent across all inertial reference frames and that light travels at a constant speed (C) regardless of the motion of the source. Participants express confusion about how these postulates lead to concepts like time dilation and length contraction. The connection is made by understanding that the constancy of light speed in all frames results in the effects of time dilation. Ultimately, the synthesis of these postulates forms the foundation of Einstein's theory, explaining how relative motion affects measurements of time and space. The conversation highlights the challenge of grasping these concepts within the framework of special relativity.
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Homework Statement


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List two postulates of special relativity and then in your own words explain how these two statements are synthesized in Einstein's theory.

Homework Equations



1. The laws of physics are the same in all inertial reference frames.
2. Light propagates through a vacuum with a speed C, no matter the state of motion other light source.

The Attempt at a Solution



To my understanding Einstein's theory is already comprised of these two postulates. I am not understanding how to explain the synthesization.
 
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Special relativity incorporates things such as time dilation, length contraction, etc. If I had to guess, I would say you are supposed to make the connection from (c is constant in all inertial frames) + (physics is physics in all inertial frames) ##\to## time dilation, for example.
 
C and the laws of physics are they same in all inertial frames:sorry:
 
If I say c is the same in all inertial frames, how does that lead to time dilation? Think light clock.
 
I was giving you the answer to my question, i found it. You were right as well. I'm lost when you mention time dilationo_O
 

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