Theory · Physics
Special Relativity
Cosmology & UniverseEstablished Science
Definition
Einstein's 1905 theory that the laws of physics and the speed of light are the same for all inertial observers.
Scientific overview
Special relativity abolished absolute space and time: measurements of length and time depend on relative motion, mass and energy are equivalent (E = mc²), and nothing travels faster than light. It underlies all of modern physics.
Historical development
Published by Albert Einstein in 1905, his 'miracle year'.
Rests on
Related scientists
Related topics
Knowledge connections
- Required bySpacetime
- Related toSpacetime
- Depends onGeneral Relativity
- Developed byAlbert Einstein
- Associated withQuantum Entanglement
- Associated withMass–Energy Equivalence
- Associated withTime Dilation
- Associated withLength Contraction
Sources & references
The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.
- NASANational Aeronautics and Space Administration
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