The theory of relativity, or simply relativity, generally encompasses two theories of Albert Einstein: special relativity and general relativity. (The word relativity can also be used in the context an older theory, that of Galilean invariance.)
Concepts introduced by the theories of relativity include:
- Measurements of various quantities are relative to the velocities of observers. In particular, space and time can dilate.
- Spacetime: space and time should be considered together and in relation to each other.
- The speed of light is nonetheless invariant, the same for all observers.
The term "theory of relativity" was based on the expression "relative theory" (German: Relativtheorie) used by Max Planck in 1906, who emphasized how the theory uses the principle of relativity. In the discussion section of the same paper Alfred Bucherer used for the first time the expression "theory of relativity" (German: Relativitätstheorie).
Read more about Theory Of Relativity: Scope, On The Theory of Relativity, Special Relativity, General Relativity, History, Minority Views
Famous quotes containing the words theory of, theory and/or relativity:
“If my theory of relativity is proven correct, Germany will claim me as a German and France will declare that I am a citizen of the world. Should my theory prove untrue, France will say that I am a German and Germany will declare that I am a Jew.”
—Albert Einstein (1879–1955)
“Don’t confuse hypothesis and theory. The former is a possible explanation; the latter, the correct one. The establishment of theory is the very purpose of science.”
—Martin H. Fischer (1879–1962)
“By an application of the theory of relativity to the taste of readers, to-day in Germany I am called a German man of science, and in England I am represented as a Swiss Jew. If I come to be regarded as a bête noire the descriptions will be reversed, and I shall become a Swiss Jew for the Germans and a German man of science for the English!”
—Albert Einstein (1879–1955)