Relativity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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relativity
[rɪˈlɛtəvɪti ]
Definition
physics concept
Relativity is a theory in physics developed by Albert Einstein that explains the relationship between space, time, and gravity. It revolutionized the understanding of these concepts, particularly in the context of speed and the influence of gravity on time and space. The theory consists of two parts: special relativity, which deals with observers in uniform motion, and general relativity, which addresses the effects of gravity on the fabric of space-time.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Einstein's theory of relativity altered our perception of time.
- The concept of relativity explains why time moves differently for astronauts in space.
- Understanding relativity is fundamental to modern astrophysics.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The theory was developed by Albert Einstein in the early 20th century, fundamentally changing the field of physics.
- Einstein introduced two main parts: Special Relativity in 1905 and General Relativity in 1915, which addressed different aspects of time and gravity.
- The famous equation E=mc², which describes how energy and mass are related, comes from the theory of relativity.
Science
- Relativity shows that time can pass at different rates depending on how fast you’re moving; for example, a clock on a speeding spaceship ticks slower than a clock on the ground.
- The theory also explains how gravity can bend light, which is why we can see distant stars and galaxies even if they are behind massive objects.
- GPS technology relies on precision timing, which needs to account for the effects of relativity to provide accurate location information.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'Interstellar' explore the concept, depicting how time can stretch near black holes, based on Einstein's theory.
- The phrase 'it's all relative' is often used colloquially to suggest that something's significance depends on the context, hinting at the meaning of the word itself.
- Books and documentaries about the universe often reference relativity as a key concept, helping to explain complex astrophysical phenomena.
Philosophy
- Philosophers have debated the implications of relativity, particularly regarding the nature of reality and how different observers can have different experiences of time and space.
- The theory raises questions about whether absolute time and space exist, or if they are merely concepts dependent on the observer's perspective.
- Some argue that relativity challenges our understanding of causality, as events can appear to occur in different orders depending on the observer’s frame of reference.
Technology
- Relativity has influenced advancements in technology, particularly in how we design and communicate with satellites, ensuring accurate timing across different locations.
- Particle accelerators, which test principles of relativity at high speeds, contribute to our understanding of fundamental particles and forces.
- Innovations in physics and astronomy have emerged partly due to principles derived from the theory of relativity, leading to improved understanding of our universe.
Origin of 'relativity'
The concept of relativity has its origins in the early 20th century when Albert Einstein published his theory of special relativity in 1905. This groundbreaking work introduced the idea that the laws of physics are the same for all non-accelerating observers and that the speed of light in a vacuum is constant, irrespective of the motion of the light source. Later, in 1915, Einstein expanded this theory into general relativity, which incorporated gravity as a curvature of space-time rather than a force acting at a distance. The term 'relativity' itself refers to the idea of relationships between different objects or frames of reference, indicating that our understanding of motion, space, and time is fundamentally dependent on the relative speed and position of observers. Since its inception, the theory of relativity has profoundly influenced philosophy, science, and our understanding of the universe.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #13,215, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.
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- 13212 psychoanalytic
- 13213 allude
- 13214 heterosexual
- 13215 relativity
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- 13217 consignee
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