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David_Harkin
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I am just starting to learn about General and special relativity, does anyone know any good sites that has good info on the topic?
Special relativity is a theory that explains the relationship between space and time in the absence of gravity, while general relativity includes the effects of gravity and describes the curvature of space and time.
The best way to start learning about general and special relativity is to familiarize yourself with the basic principles of physics, such as motion, energy, and forces. You can then move on to understanding the theories and equations proposed by Albert Einstein.
While a strong background in mathematics can certainly help in understanding the complex equations involved in general and special relativity, it is not necessary. Many popular science books and online resources provide simplified explanations that do not require advanced mathematical knowledge.
General and special relativity have many practical applications in modern technology, such as GPS systems, which rely on precise measurements of time and space. They also play a crucial role in fields like astrophysics and cosmology, helping us understand the behavior of objects in the universe.
One common misconception is that general and special relativity only apply to objects traveling at near-light speeds or in extreme gravitational fields. However, their principles can also be observed in everyday situations, such as the slowing of time in a moving vehicle or the bending of light around massive objects like the sun.