Newtonian Physics: Is it Compatible with Relativity?

In summary, the initial statement in Newtonian physics about absolute state of motion and absolute space is not compatible with the theory of relativity. This principle has been rejected and modern Newtonian physics follows the principle of Galilean relativity. Additionally, it is important to remember that even the greatest scientists are not considered infallible and their theories are subject to change and evolution.
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Atari_Me
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Newtonian Physics states in part that 'every object has an absolute state of motion relative to absolute space, so that an object must be either in a state of absolute rest, or moving at some absolute speed.'

Granting that if absolute space were to exist, we have no means to measure it at present and therefore irrelevant, is there anything in the above aspect of Newtonian Physics that is incompatible with Relativity?
 
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Atari_Me said:
Newtonian Physics states in part that 'every object has an absolute state of motion relative to absolute space, so that an object must be either in a state of absolute rest, or moving at some absolute speed.'
Newtonian physics doesn't say that.
Granting that if absolute space were to exist, we have no means to measure it at present...
That isn't true either. 130 years ago there was a famous experiment that should have found it if it existed.
...is there anything in the above aspect of Newtonian Physics that is incompatible with Relativity?
Newtonian physics is incompatible with the constant, finite speed of light.
 
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  • #3
Atari_Me said:
Newtonian Physics states in part that 'every object has an absolute state of motion relative to absolute space, so that an object must be either in a state of absolute rest, or moving at some absolute speed.'
Note that modern Newtonian physics does not say this.

Several centuries ago Sir Isaac Newton began Newtonian physics, but he did not finish it. He did say something similar to this but that statement was changed afterwards by later physicists. Now, Newtonian physics is understood to follow the principle of Galilean relativity and Newton’s statement was rejected.

It is important to understand that even the great scientists are not considered infallible and are not considered to have the final word on their theory. They have the first say, not the last.
 
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1. What is Newtonian physics?

Newtonian physics, also known as classical mechanics, is a set of physical laws and principles developed by Sir Isaac Newton in the 17th century. It describes the motion of objects in terms of forces and energy.

2. What is relativity?

Relativity is a theory developed by Albert Einstein in the early 20th century, which explains the relationship between space and time. It includes two major theories: special relativity, which deals with objects moving at constant speeds, and general relativity, which deals with objects in accelerated motion or in the presence of gravity.

3. How are Newtonian physics and relativity related?

Newtonian physics and relativity are two different theories that attempt to explain the physical world. Newtonian physics is based on the concept of absolute space and time, while relativity introduces the idea of relative space and time. However, in certain situations, Newtonian physics can be used as an approximation of relativity.

4. What are the main differences between Newtonian physics and relativity?

The main differences between Newtonian physics and relativity lie in their fundamental principles. Newtonian physics assumes that space and time are absolute and that the laws of physics are the same for all observers. On the other hand, relativity considers space and time to be relative and that the laws of physics are dependent on the observer's frame of reference.

5. Is Newtonian physics compatible with relativity?

In most cases, Newtonian physics and relativity provide similar predictions and can be considered compatible. However, in extreme situations involving high speeds or strong gravitational fields, Newtonian physics breaks down and relativity must be used to accurately describe the physical phenomena. Therefore, relativity is considered to be a more comprehensive and accurate theory than Newtonian physics.

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