RELATIVITY I

Front

What is the proper length of an object?

Back

The proper length of an object is defined as the length of the object measured by someone at rest with respect to the object.

Front

What happens to the length of an object moving at relativistic speeds?

Back

According to the theory of relativity, the length of an object moving at relativistic speeds appears contracted to an observer at rest.

Front

What is Einstein's first postulate of special relativity?

Back

The laws of physics are the same in all inertial frames of reference.

Front

What is Einstein's second postulate of special relativity?

Back

The speed of light in a vacuum is constant and will be the same for all observers, regardless of their relative motion.

Front

What is time dilation?

Back

Time dilation is the phenomenon where time passes at a slower rate for an object moving at relativistic speeds compared to a stationary observer.

Front

What is length contraction?

Back

Length contraction is the phenomenon where an object in motion is measured to be shorter in the direction of motion compared to its proper length.

Front

What is the significance of the speed of light in relativity?

Back

The speed of light is the ultimate speed limit in the universe and is constant for all observers, forming the basis of Einstein's theory of relativity.

Front

What is the relationship between mass and energy according to relativity?

Back

According to Einstein's equation E=mc², mass and energy are interchangeable; an increase in mass results in an increase in energy.

Front

What is a frame of reference?

Back

A frame of reference is a coordinate system used to measure the position, orientation, and other properties of objects.

Front

What is the concept of simultaneity in relativity?

Back

Simultaneity is relative; events that are simultaneous in one frame of reference may not be simultaneous in another frame moving relative to the first.