Depends on the goal. If it is merely the case that he has become aware that the "knowledge" one gains through pop-science presentations is often crap and he wants to clean things up at the amateur level of understanding, that's one thing. If the goal is anywhere near a full understanding, then of course I agree w/ you.symbolipoint said:Difficult to do without actually studying. Best done through going to school officially
Well, I think you can easily solidify that by asking questions here on PF and reading various appropriate threads. As said above, that will not give you a full understanding since that just doesn't happen without the full math treatment, which is a non-trivial undertaking.G Delta said:Yes, it has been difficult but not impossible. I think I’ve got a pretty good handle on it for being a layperson.
Relativity and quantum theory are two major theories in physics that explain different aspects of the universe. Relativity, specifically the theory of general relativity, explains the behavior of large-scale objects such as planets and galaxies. On the other hand, quantum theory explains the behavior of subatomic particles and the fundamental forces that govern them. In simpler terms, relativity deals with the big, while quantum theory deals with the small.
Relativity has a profound impact on our daily lives, even though we may not realize it. For example, the GPS system in our phones and cars relies on the principles of relativity to accurately determine our location. Additionally, relativity also helps us understand concepts like time dilation and the bending of light, which have practical applications in fields such as astronomy and telecommunications.
Quantum theory has revolutionized our understanding of the universe and has led to groundbreaking advancements in technology. It has helped us understand the behavior of subatomic particles and has led to the development of technologies such as transistors, lasers, and MRI machines. Additionally, quantum theory has also played a crucial role in fields like chemistry and biology, helping us understand the behavior of molecules and living organisms.
Currently, there is no single theory that can fully explain both relativity and quantum theory. However, many scientists are working on theories that aim to reconcile the two, such as string theory and loop quantum gravity. These theories are still in their early stages and require further research and experimentation to be fully validated.
While the concepts of relativity and quantum theory may seem complex, it is possible for a layperson to gain a basic understanding of these theories. There are many resources available, such as books and online courses, that explain these concepts in simpler terms. It may require some effort and patience, but with dedication, anyone can grasp the fundamentals of relativity and quantum theory.