Theory of relativity

Video simulation of the merger GW150914, showing spacetime distortion from gravity as the black holes orbit and merge

The theory of relativity usually encompasses two interrelated physics theories by Albert Einstein: special relativity and general relativity, proposed and published in 1905 and 1915, respectively.[1] Special relativity applies to all physical phenomena in the absence of gravity. General relativity explains the law of gravitation and its relation to the forces of nature.[2] It applies to the cosmological and astrophysical realm, including astronomy.[3]

The theory transformed theoretical physics and astronomy during the 20th century, superseding a 200-year-old theory of mechanics created primarily by Isaac Newton.[3][4][5] It introduced concepts including 4-dimensional spacetime as a unified entity of space and time, 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 extraordinary astronomical phenomena such as neutron stars, black holes, and gravitational waves.[3][4][5]

  1. ^ Einstein A. (1916), Relativity: The Special and General Theory  (Translation 1920), New York: H. Holt and Company
  2. ^ Cite error: The named reference londontimes was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  3. ^ a b c Will, Clifford M (2010). "Relativity". Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia. Archived from the original on 21 May 2020. Retrieved 1 August 2010.
  4. ^ a b Will, Clifford M (2010). "Space-Time Continuum". Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia. Retrieved 1 August 2010.[permanent dead link]
  5. ^ a b Will, Clifford M (2010). "Fitzgerald–Lorentz contraction". Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia. Archived from the original on 25 January 2013. Retrieved 1 August 2010.

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