I am confused by the concept of space-time in special relativity

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinction between Galilean spacetime in Newtonian physics and Minkowski spacetime in special relativity. While both frameworks involve three spatial dimensions and one time dimension, the integration of space and time is significantly more pronounced in Minkowski spacetime. This interconnectedness is a fundamental aspect of special relativity, which is not emphasized in Newtonian physics. The term "spacetime" is therefore more commonly associated with relativistic physics due to this deeper relationship.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newtonian physics and its principles
  • Basic knowledge of special relativity concepts
  • Familiarity with Galilean transformations
  • Introduction to Minkowski spacetime and its properties
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the mathematical framework of Minkowski spacetime
  • Explore the implications of Lorentz transformations in special relativity
  • Investigate the differences between Galilean and Lorentzian physics
  • Learn about the concept of spacetime in general relativity
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching relativity, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the relationship between space and time in modern physics.

rgtr
Messages
90
Reaction score
8
Homework Statement
I am confused by the concept of space-time in special relativity, I have 3 spatial dimensions and 1 time dimensions. In Newtonian physics don't I also have 3 spatial dimensions and 1 time dimension? Then why call it space time in special relativity and not in Newtonian physics?
Relevant Equations
No equations
I am confused by the concept of space-time in special relativity, I have 3 spatial dimensions and 1 time dimensions. In Newtonian physics don't I also have 3 spatial dimensions and 1 time dimension? Then why call it space time in special relativity and not in Newtonian physics?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
It is called spacetime in Newtonian physics too.

The difference is that Newtonian physics has Galilean spacetime where space and time are much less intertwined than in the Minkowski spacetime of special relativity or the general Lorentzian manifolds of general relativity. It istherefore much less common to talk about spacetime in Newtonian physics.
 
Reply
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: rgtr
Thanks.
 

Similar threads

Why is time = ct and not t in special relativty?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
How to Visualize a 4 vector (e.g. a velocity)?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Proper Time and Time Dilatation
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
How does relativity affect the detection of atmospheric muons?
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Undergrad Does string theory falsify the theory of special relativity?
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
Question on special relativity from "Basic Relativity"
  • · Replies 67 ·
3
Replies
67
Views
5K
Special relativity problems — More details below
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
High School On the four dimensions of special relativity
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
2K
Special relativity - Trivial exercise with spacetime interval
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Speed of a star in Special Relativity
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K