Why is the speed of light what it is?

Thread starter Johnnyallen
Start date May 31, 2018
Tags

Light Lightspeed Speed Speed of light

Click For Summary

SUMMARY

The speed of light, defined as 299,792,458 meters per second in a vacuum, is a fundamental constant in physics, integral to theories such as Einstein's Special Relativity. This speed is invariant across all inertial reference frames, a principle that underpins concepts like time dilation and length contraction. While physicists have proposed that the speed of light may have varied in the early universe, no empirical evidence supports this claim. The fine structure constant, approximately 1/137, is a dimensionless quantity that relates to the speed of light and other fundamental forces, highlighting the intricate relationships within physical laws.

PREREQUISITES

Understanding of Special Relativity and its implications
Familiarity with the fine structure constant and its significance
Knowledge of electromagnetic theory as proposed by James Clerk Maxwell
Basic grasp of measurement systems and their arbitrary nature in physics

NEXT STEPS

Research the implications of the fine structure constant in quantum mechanics
Study the historical context and significance of the Michelson-Morley experiment
Explore the relationship between electromagnetic waves and the speed of light
Investigate current theories regarding potential variations in fundamental constants over time

USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, researchers in theoretical physics, and anyone interested in the foundational principles of light and its role in the universe.