Puzzle of negative result of Michelson Morley experiment

In summary, the conversation discusses how Michelson predicted the contraction of length and Einstein's theory of constancy of light from the negative results of the MM experiment. The concept of the Principle of Relativity is mentioned, where light and any object would have the same speed in all directions in a moving frame of reference. This led to the conclusion that the speed of light is constant for everyone, regardless of their state of motion, which requires length contraction and time dilation. The conversation also mentions the lack of existence of ether and how it is sufficient to explain the results. Finally, there is a mention of Fizeau's measurements in 1850, which directly falsify Galilean transformations.
  • #1
mdn
49
0
HI all
How can Michelson itself predicted contraction of length and Einstein about constancy of light from negative result of MM experiment.
forget about existence of ether, light speed always same in moving frame of reference and importantly in any direction so how can one except shift in fringes?
not only light, any object would have been same speed in all direction in moving frame of reference.
 
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  • #2
That last part is called The Principle of Relativity and extending the concept to include light while reconciling it with a constant speed of light was indeed the key conclusion. To most people that is a surprising result and to make like be the same speed for everyone regardless of their state of motion requires length contraction/time dilation. Otherwise, shooting a beam of light from a moving object to a stationary one would give two different speeds of light according to the two observers.
 
  • #3
thanks
the answer would have been " no ether" that's sufficient. would you give me one practical example where Galilean transformation is ineffective?
 
  • #4
mdn said:
thanks
the answer would have been " no ether" that's sufficient. would you give me one practical example where Galilean transformation is ineffective?
There is a sticky thread at the top of this forum on experimental confirmation of relativity. The great majority cannot be reconciled with the Galilean transforms.

Fizeau's 1850 measurements of the speed of light in a moving medium are a direct falsification of Galilean transformations.
 

1. What is the Michelson Morley experiment?

The Michelson Morley experiment was a scientific experiment conducted in the late 19th century to measure the speed of light. It involved using a device called an interferometer to detect any changes in the speed of light due to the Earth's motion through the hypothetical "ether" that was thought to exist at the time.

2. Why was the negative result of the experiment considered a puzzle?

The negative result of the Michelson Morley experiment was considered a puzzle because it contradicted the prevailing theory at the time, which stated that the speed of light should be affected by the Earth's motion through the ether. This result raised questions about the validity of the ether theory and challenged the existing understanding of the laws of physics.

3. How did the negative result of the experiment impact the development of physics?

The negative result of the Michelson Morley experiment played a significant role in the development of modern physics. It led to the development of Albert Einstein's theory of special relativity, which proposed that the laws of physics are the same for all observers regardless of their frame of reference. This theory revolutionized our understanding of space, time, and the relationship between matter and energy.

4. Was the Michelson Morley experiment repeated?

Yes, the Michelson Morley experiment has been repeated many times since its initial discovery. However, the results have remained consistently negative, further confirming the principles of special relativity. The experiment has also been refined and improved upon with modern technology, leading to even more precise measurements.

5. Why is the Michelson Morley experiment still important today?

The Michelson Morley experiment remains important today because it played a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the fundamental laws of physics. It also paved the way for further scientific discoveries and advancements, such as the development of the theory of general relativity. Additionally, the experiment continues to be used in modern research and serves as a cornerstone of modern physics.

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