Proof of Lorentz transformation

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the assumption of homogeneity in space and time, which is supported by the lack of evidence against it and its consistency with all observations in the absence of tidal gravity. The laws of physics remain unchanged regardless of Earth's position in its orbit, and experimental results, such as the round trip time of light, confirm this homogeneity. Additionally, no plausible theories exist that begin with an inhomogeneous spacetime and still predict the same observations, reinforcing the validity of the homogeneity assumption.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles, particularly in relation to spacetime.
  • Familiarity with the concept of homogeneity in physical theories.
  • Knowledge of observational methods in physics, such as measuring light travel time.
  • Awareness of the implications of tidal gravity on spacetime assumptions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of homogeneity in Einstein's theory of relativity.
  • Explore observational techniques in astrophysics, focusing on spectral analysis of distant objects.
  • Study alternative theories of spacetime that challenge the homogeneity assumption.
  • Investigate the effects of tidal gravity on spacetime and its implications for physical laws.
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, astrophysicists, and students of theoretical physics interested in the foundational assumptions of spacetime and their implications for the laws of physics.

murshiddreamengineer
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What are the supporting arguments for the assumption that space and time are homogeneous?

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murshiddreamengineer said:
What are the supporting arguments for the assumption that space and time are homogeneous?
It is the simplest assumption, and it is consistent with all observations in the absence of tidal gravity.
 
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murshiddreamengineer said:
What are the supporting arguments for the assumption that space and time are homogeneous?
Two things:
First there's pretty much no evidence to the contrary. The laws of physics don't change even though the earth is in a completely different place in winter and summer, the spectral lines from distant astronomical objects show that time and space works the same there as here, no matter which direction I point my laser I will find that the round trip time from laser to a fixed mirror and back is the same.....
And second, there's no plausible theory that starts with an inhomogeneous spacetime yet predicts the same observations.

(As a digression, there are implausible theories that do exactly that. The homogeneity assumption is also the assertion that these theories are implausible).
 
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murshiddreamengineer said:
What are the supporting arguments for the assumption that space and time are homogeneous?
Things derived from that assumption match observation and experiment.
 
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