The discussion centers on the implications of relative velocity in the context of Special Relativity (SRT). If an object S' moves with velocity v in frame S, SRT mandates that S must move with velocity -v in S'. Deviating from this principle would render physical laws observer-dependent, undermining the invariant nature of the speed of light (c) and leading to frame-dependent mechanics. This scenario poses significant challenges in particle physics, particularly in experiments involving high-velocity particles, where determining absolute motion would become feasible.
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CompuChip said:Well, it would mean that physics would become observer-dependent. If we were both in spaceships in empty space, for example, we would be able to devise an experiment which told us who of us was in S, and who was in S'. In other words, who is in absolute motion.
If you even think about particle physics (for example accelerating particles in a laboratory, or particles crashing towards the Earth at high velocities) you would hopefully see why this is highly undesirable.