What is the theory of relitivity?

Answer 1

This question is confusing/mixing-up two different scientific theories, and should be worded something like:

"What is Darwin's theory of evolution?"

'The Origin of Species' (1859), a book by Charles Darwin explaining his theory of evolution provoked great controversy: by casting doubt on the historical accuracy of the biblical accounts of Creation it caused many believers to question their faith in Christianity.

Another scientist, Albert Einstein, proposed a "General theory of relativity" that has nothing to do with Darwin's theory!

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Technically correct attribution of theories aside, Darwin's theory of 'relativity' is that all living things are relatives!

Answer 2

There is actually two parts to the theory of relativity, the special theory of relativity and the general theory of relativity.

In the special theory of relativity Einstein explained the relationship between motion and time. It had worried physicists for a long time that light always travelled at the same speed regardless of the relative speed of the observer. Einstein realised that the only explanation for this is if time was slowed in relation to the observers speed as a fraction of the speed of light. The equation is to difficult to explain quickly.

In the general theory of relativity Einstein explains the connection between a mass and how it curves space time around it. Einstein realised that there is no difference between the inertia you feel in a lift or on a train and the force you feel as gravity. He showed that space time is warped by a massive object in such a way that a particle in the vicinity of a mass needs to move towards it in order to stand still in curved space time. The equations for the general theore of relativity are in 18 differential terms there is one term that needs to be put in from observation and the null term that makes no sense at all it is also partly in tensor. It is one of the most beautiful equations mankind has ever made.

Answer 3

The theory of relitivity was made up by Einstein. There are two types: general relitivity and special. General relitivity says that instead of objects possessing gravity, they also bend the space-time around them. Space and time are interwoven into a fabric called "space-time". Special relitivity says that the closer you get to the speed of light, the more time slows down. Once you get to the speed of light, time stops. For example, say that you travel to the sun at the speed of light. It would take about seven to eight minutes to get there and sever or eight to get back. But if you were traveling at the speed of light, time would stop for you. So the universe would experience 14-16 minutes of change while you would experience 0 minutes. It works the same for further distances.

Answer 4

A full explanation is a bit too long for a site such as this one. I suggest you review a site such as Wikipedia, and then come back here if you have specific questions. There are actually two "theories of relativity"; start with the "Special Theory of Relativity".

Answer 5

The laws of physics are the same, relative to all frames of reference.