Quiz

Two Interrelated Physics Theories by Albert Einstein

• The theory of relativity encompasses two interrelated physics theories by Albert Einstein; special relativity and general relativity, proposed and published in 1905 and 1915, respectively.
• Special relativity applies to all physical phenomena in the absence of gravity, while general relativity explains the law of gravitation and its relation to the forces of nature and applies to the cosmological and astrophysical realm.
• Relativity transformed theoretical physics and astronomy during the 20th century, superseding a 200-year-old theory of mechanics created primarily by Isaac Newton.
• Relativity introduced concepts including 4-dimensional spacetime, relativity of simultaneity, kinematic and gravitational time dilation, and length contraction.
• In the field of physics, relativity improved the science of elementary particles and their fundamental interactions, along with ushering in the nuclear age.
• With relativity, cosmology and astrophysics predicted astronomical phenomena such as neutron stars, black holes, and gravitational waves.
• Albert Einstein published the theory of special relativity in 1905, building on many theoretical results and empirical findings.
• Einstein developed general relativity between 1907 and 1915, with contributions by many others after 1915.
• By the 1920s, the physics community understood and accepted special relativity, but general relativity did not appear to be as useful until around 1960.
• Relativity is a falsifiable theory, and its predictions have been confirmed in numerous tests since Einstein published his paper in 1905.
• General relativity has been confirmed many times, and its applications include satellite-based measurement, global positioning systems, and high-precision measurement of time.
• Relativistic effects are important practical engineering concerns.