B Light Speed Invariance: Experiments, Difficulties & Clarification

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The discussion centers on the invariance of light speed to observers and whether there are experiments that directly prove this concept. While many experiments demonstrate that light speed is constant regardless of the source's motion, participants question the existence of similar proof for moving observers. The principle of relativity suggests that only relative motion matters, implying that the motion of the source and observer can be interpreted interchangeably. The successful operation of the GPS system is cited as evidence supporting the invariance of light speed in practical applications, although some participants remain unconvinced and seek direct experimental proof. Ultimately, the conversation highlights ongoing debates about the interpretation of special relativity and the nature of experimental evidence.
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  • #33
georgechen said:
I meant the explanation of how GPS proves the invariance of light speed to moving observer.

This is like knowing that ##2 + 3 = 5## but asking for a proof that ##3 + 2 = 5##. Nobody is going to bother to write down an explicit proof since it is already a well established fact that addition is commutative. Similarly, nobody is going to bother to write down an explicit explanation of how GPS proves that only relative motion is physically meaningful, since it is already a well established fact that the principle of relativity is true.

In other words, your question has been answered. The fact that you obstinately refuse to accept the answer does not mean the answer is invalid. It's valid.

Thread closed.
 
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