Who is More Important for Physics: Newton or Einstein?

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on the comparative importance of Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein in the field of physics. Participants argue that Newton laid the foundational principles of physics that Einstein later built upon, with one user stating, "Einstein's physics more or less follows the path that Newton laid down." The conversation also touches on the contributions of Robert Hooke, who played a significant role in the development of the concept of universal gravity, which Newton later expanded. The discussion highlights the ongoing debate about the legacy and recognition of these historical figures in science.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of classical mechanics and Newtonian physics
  • Familiarity with the theory of relativity and its implications
  • Knowledge of the historical context of scientific contributions by Newton, Einstein, and Hooke
  • Awareness of the significance of scientific collaboration and rivalry
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the contributions of Robert Hooke to universal gravity
  • Explore the differences between Newtonian physics and Einstein's theory of relativity
  • Study the historical context of the scientific rivalry between Newton and Hooke
  • Examine the impact of Einstein's theories on modern physics and technology
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, historians of science, and anyone interested in the evolution of scientific thought and the contributions of key figures in physics.

  • #31
zoobyshoe said:
(Shhhhh. Randallb thinks I am a gullible person taken in by a wise-cracker.)
Ok OK - so you're not gullible, it was your creative imagination cracking wise with yourself - & us.
So - keeping it quit just with us here, in your creative imagination
(what is Hawking marking on who's photos?)
 
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  • #32
Einstein is better than Newton since he even proved him wrong.
 
  • #33
Mattara said:
Einstein is better than Newton since he even proved him wrong.
Where exactly did Einstein “prove” Newton wrong?
Don’t include the modern idea that Newtonian gravity requires “instant” transmission.
Newton never claimed that – He was very specific in mathematically defining the force relationship of gravity between two masses and clearly stated that he was not proposing anything as to how the forces were connected between the two masses.
 
  • #34
RandallB said:
Where exactly did Einstein “prove” Newton wrong?
Don’t include the modern idea that Newtonian gravity requires “instant” transmission.
Newton never claimed that – He was very specific in mathematically defining the force relationship of gravity between two masses and clearly stated that he was not proposing anything as to how the forces were connected between the two masses.

That is exactly what I mean. Newton did claim that.
 
  • #35
Mattara said:
Newton did claim that.
Where? Do you have a quote or referance?
 
  • #36
chroot said:
I don't know about you guys, but I think if Newton and Einstein got in a bar fight, Newton would totally have won. I mean, it's so easy to pound on a pacifist.

- Warren
well, I don't know why I think we'd have trouble to realize who's the winner!(considering modern physics)
 
  • #37
did anyone see this movie

"E=mc2 Einstein and the world's most famous equation"

this movie starts with Faraday and finishes at Einstein,,showing that the base was laid by these guys..
 
  • #38
  • #39
FredGarvin said:
I like pie.
Mmmmm pie...:-p
I like \pi too..
 
  • #40
Hooke pwns them both.

Fear the Hooke
 
  • #41
Mattara said:
My bad

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/time/through.html

Also, Einstein proved that the normal equations does not work when dealing with high speeds.
Right as from your link "(Newton) admitted he could only describe it without understanding how it worked."

The idea that "normal equations" require 'instant' gravity is a modern requirement, that Newton never claimed.

As to that three way bar fight Hooke & Newton are in trouble if the pacifist brings his nuke.
 
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