Relativity Quiz

To master the concepts of relativity, it’s essential to understand the two fundamental theories proposed by Albert Einstein: special relativity and general relativity. Special relativity, introduced in 1905, is based on two postulates: the laws of physics are the same for all observers in uniform motion relative to one another, and the speed of light in a vacuum is constant for all observers, regardless of their motion. This leads to several counterintuitive consequences, such as time dilation, where time appears to pass more slowly for objects moving at high speeds compared to stationary observers, and length contraction, where objects in motion are measured to be shorter along the direction of motion. Familiarize yourself with the thought experiments Einstein used, like the train and lightning scenario, to visualize these concepts and how they challenge our everyday experiences of space and time.


General relativity, published in 1915, expands on special relativity by incorporating the effect of gravity on the fabric of spacetime. It posits that massive objects cause a curvature in spacetime, which is perceived as gravity. A key insight of general relativity is that the paths of objects, or geodesics, are influenced by this curvature, leading to phenomena such as the bending of light around massive bodies (gravitational lens) and the prediction of black holes. To solidify your understanding, review the equations that describe the relationship between mass, energy, and curvature, notably the Einstein field equations. Engage with real-world applications of general relativity, such as GPS technology, where satellite time dilation must be accounted for to provide accurate positioning. By connecting theoretical concepts to practical examples, you will deepen your comprehension of how relativity reshaped our understanding of the universe.