Section: STEM · PhysicsDifficulty: Advanced

Special Relativity

USUK

Einstein's theory that the laws of physics are the same for all non-accelerating observers.

Also: special relativity theory · STR

Definition

Special relativity, proposed by Albert Einstein in 1905, is a theory based on two postulates: the laws of physics are the same for all observers in uniform motion, and the speed of light in a vacuum is constant for all observers. It leads to consequences such as time dilation, length contraction, and the equivalence of mass and energy (E = mc2). These effects become significant at speeds approaching the speed of light.

Example

“GPS satellites must account for time dilation predicted by special and general relativity; without these corrections, GPS positioning would drift by several kilometers per day.”

Synonyms

  • theory of special relativity
  • Einstein special relativity
  • restricted relativity

Antonyms / Opposites

  • classical mechanics
  • Newtonian mechanics

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Related Terms

  • General Relativity
  • Time Dilation
  • Mass-Energy Equivalence
  • Lorentz Transformation

Dictionary Entry

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