If everything is relative to each other in this universe

In summary, the reason we use the sun as the reference point when studying the solar system and universe is because it makes the math easier. 500 years ago, Copernicus questioned this and proposed using the Earth as the reference point, but the sun-centric system is still preferred. In daily life, we observe the motion of the Sun relative to us, but on the Sun we could also observe the motion of the Earth.
  • #1
!Jon Snow!
35
0
why do we keep the sun to be the reference point and study the solar system and universe relative to it and why not relative to the Earth?
 
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  • #3
!Jon Snow! said:
why do we keep the sun to be the reference point and study the solar system and universe relative to it and why not relative to the Earth?

Google "epicycles"
 
  • #4
!Jon Snow! said:
why do we keep the sun to be the reference point and study the solar system and universe relative to it and why not relative to the Earth?

Copernicus asked the opposite question and, as Dalespam alluded to, the math was much easier. 500 years later it's still easier. So why go back?
 
  • #5
In daily life, we observe sunrise and sunset, which are the motion of the Sun relative to us.
 
  • #6
vlemon265 said:
In daily life, we observe sunrise and sunset, which are the motion of the Sun relative to us.

Yes. And your point is? You seem to be making an argument for Earth centric systems.
 
  • #7
phinds said:
Yes. And your point is? You seem to be making an argument for Earth centric systems.
No. I am not.
But on the Sun, if possible, we could also observe 'Earthrise' and 'Earthset' relative to the Sun.
Is that correct?
 
  • #8
vlemon265 said:
No. I am not.
But on the Sun, if possible, we could also observe 'Earthrise' and 'Earthset' relative to the Sun.
Is that correct?

Yes.
 

1. How does relativity impact our understanding of the universe?

Relativity is a fundamental principle in modern physics that states that the laws of physics are the same for all observers in uniform motion. This means that there is no absolute frame of reference, and everything is relative to the observer's frame of reference. Therefore, our understanding of the universe is shaped by our perspective and can differ from others depending on their relative motion and position.

2. Does this mean there is no objective reality in the universe?

While relativity does suggest that reality can vary depending on the observer's frame of reference, it does not discount the existence of an objective reality. Instead, it highlights the importance of considering different perspectives and understanding the limitations of our own observations.

3. How does relativity relate to time and space?

One of the key concepts in relativity is the idea that time and space are not absolute, but instead are relative to the observer's frame of reference. This means that time and space can appear to be different for different observers depending on their relative motion and position.

4. Can relativity help us understand the behavior of objects in the universe?

Yes, relativity has been crucial in understanding the behavior of objects in the universe, particularly at high speeds and in extreme environments. It has helped us understand phenomena such as black holes, gravitational waves, and the expansion of the universe.

5. How does relativity impact our daily lives?

Relativity may seem like a complex and abstract concept, but it has practical applications in our daily lives. For example, GPS systems need to account for the effects of relativity in order to provide accurate location data. Additionally, our understanding of time and space is influenced by relativity, which can shape our perception of events and our relationships with others.

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