Is Einstein's Theory of Relativity Flawed?

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In summary, the conversation discusses potential flaws in the equation e=mc2, specifically regarding the definition of mass and the lack of a vector for the speed of light. The concept of constant 'c' as the proportionality between space and time dimensions is also mentioned. The conversation also touches on the idea of relativistic energy and its dependence on direction, as well as the accuracy of Einstein's theories. Finally, the conversation includes a discussion of different perspectives and the need for experimental verification.
  • #1
ingodszoo
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I can't help but think that e=mc2 has a flaw. One mass is not defined to its simplest form and the speed of light has no vector accounted for. Any thoughts about this?
 
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  • #2
To address your second objection, let's imagine for a moment that c were a vector. How would you write the new and improved e=mc2 when c is a vector?
 
  • #3
Speed is not an invariant vector in relativity. Also, speed of light doesn't have any associated vector.

Constant 'c' is just proportionality between space and time dimensions.
 
  • #4
Speed is not an invariant vector in relativity. Also, speed of light doesn't have any associated vector.

Constant 'c' is just proportionality between space and time dimensions.
 
  • #5
Relativistic energy is rest-mass energy plus kinetic energy. In non-relativistic mechanics, rest-mass energy doesn't exist, of course, and kinetic energy doesn't depend on the direction of motion. So why should relativistic energy depend on direction?
 
  • #6
To addresses the title more directly: Einstein couldn't possibly have been wrong by more than a tiny fraction of a percent: his theories have been confirmed by experiments to a high degree of precision.
 
  • #7
russ_watters said:
To addresses the title more directly: Einstein couldn't possibly have been wrong by more than a tiny fraction of a percent: his theories have been confirmed by experiments to a high degree of precision.

That's one perspective provided by the sieve of practicality and application. The sieve I favor is less forgiving, comprised of principles that seem to have a fundamental nature. Included in these might be the conservation of spin currents for which Riemann geometry appears to fall short.
 
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  • #8
Phrak, your sieve is useless without experimental verification.
 
  • #9
nnnm4 said:
Phrak, your sieve is useless without experimental verification.

Gad Zooks! All these years conserving momentum gone to waste. Please elaborate.
 

1. What evidence do we have to suggest that Einstein may have been wrong?

There is no definitive evidence to suggest that Einstein was wrong. However, some theories, such as string theory and loop quantum gravity, offer alternative explanations for the nature of space and time that could potentially contradict Einstein's theories.

2. How would the world be different if Einstein's theories were proven wrong?

If Einstein's theories were proven wrong, it would have a significant impact on our understanding of the universe. Many technological advancements, such as GPS and nuclear energy, are based on Einstein's theories. It would also call into question our current understanding of gravity and the structure of the universe.

3. Are there any experiments or observations that could disprove Einstein's theories?

Yes, there are ongoing experiments and observations that could potentially disprove some of Einstein's theories. For example, the Large Hadron Collider in Europe is currently searching for evidence of particles that could contradict Einstein's theories of relativity.

4. How did Einstein's theories change our understanding of the universe?

Einstein's theories of relativity revolutionized our understanding of the universe. They provided a new framework for understanding the nature of space and time, and helped us to better understand the behavior of objects in motion. They also laid the foundation for modern theories of cosmology and the Big Bang.

5. Is it possible for a single person to prove Einstein wrong?

No, it is highly unlikely that one person could prove Einstein's theories wrong. Einstein's theories have been extensively tested and confirmed through experiments and observations. Any potential contradictions or revisions to his theories would likely require the collective efforts of the scientific community.

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