Special Relativity

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the special theory of relativity and its implications in physics.

Special Theory of Relativity

Einstein's theory that describes the relationship between space and time, stating that the laws of physics are the same for all observers in uniform motion.

Reference Frame

The perspective from which measurements and observations are made; it can be different for different observers.

Time Dilation

The phenomenon where time passes at a slower rate for an object in motion compared to a stationary observer.

Twin Paradox

A thought experiment in special relativity where one twin travels at near-light speeds and returns younger than the twin that remained on Earth.

Luminiferous Aether

A hypothesized medium through which light waves were believed to propagate, later shown to be unnecessary.

Relative Velocity

The velocity of one object as observed from another object; it can vary depending on the observer's frame of reference.

Lorentz Factor

A quantity that describes how much time, length, and relativistic mass increase by measuring from a different frame of reference.

Spacetime

A four-dimensional continuum combining the three dimensions of space with the one dimension of time.

Maxwell’s Equations

A set of equations formulated by James Clerk Maxwell that describe the relationship between electric and magnetic fields.

Inertial Reference Frame

A frame of reference in which an object remains at rest or moves at a constant velocity unless acted upon by a force.