Exploring the Special Theory of Relativity

What is the principle of relativity?

• The laws of physics are only applicable in a vacuum.

• The laws of physics are the same in all inertial frames of reference.

• The laws of physics vary in different inertial frames of reference.

• Only non-inertial frames can observe the laws of physics.

Who formulated the special theory of relativity?

• Galileo Galilei

• Albert Einstein

• Niels Bohr

• Isaac Newton

What year was the special theory of relativity published?

• 1905

• 1895

• 1912

• 1921

What is the significance of the speed of light in a vacuum?

• The speed of light in a vacuum is significant as it is the maximum speed for information and matter, fundamental to the laws of physics.

• The speed of light is a constant that varies with temperature.

• Light can travel faster in a vacuum than in any medium.

• The speed of light is irrelevant to the laws of physics.

Define time dilation in the context of relativity.

• Time dilation is the phenomenon where time stops completely for an observer in motion.

• Time dilation refers to the increase in speed of light in a vacuum due to gravity.

• Time dilation is the effect of time moving faster in a stronger gravitational field.

• Time dilation is the difference in elapsed time as measured by two observers, due to a relative difference in velocity or gravitational field.

What is length contraction?

• Length contraction only occurs in black holes.

• Length contraction is the increase in an object's size when it moves fast.

• Length contraction is a phenomenon that affects time, not space.

• Length contraction occurs when an object moves at relativistic speeds, appearing shorter in the direction of motion to a stationary observer.

How does mass affect the speed of light according to relativity?

• Higher mass results in light traveling faster through space.

• Mass increases the speed of light in a vacuum.

• Mass does not affect the speed of light; it remains constant at 'c' in a vacuum.

• Light speed varies with the mass of the observer.

What is the equation that relates energy and mass?

• E=mc²

• E=mv²

• E=mc³

• E=1/2mv²

Explain the concept of simultaneity in relativity.

• Simultaneity refers to events that happen in the same location regardless of time.

• Simultaneity in relativity means that simultaneous events in one frame may not be simultaneous in another due to relative motion.

• Simultaneity is the idea that time is absolute and the same for all observers.

• Simultaneity means all events occur at the same time in every frame.

What are inertial frames of reference?

• Inertial frames of reference are where objects are at rest only.

• Inertial frames of reference are frames where objects not subject to forces move uniformly in a straight line.

• Inertial frames of reference are only found in outer space.

• Inertial frames of reference are always accelerating.