hanearlk


 * Applications of the Theory of Relativity**

Einstein's theory of relativity is applicable to present society influencing technological advancements and modern science.

Certain simple knowledge and "rules-of-thumb" in today's society result from Einstein's theory. One such rule originating from the theory is when someone can tell the distance between him/her and a lightning strike by counting the seconds between the flash and the thunder (Thorne par. 6). The idea behind this logic is from Einstein's findings on relations between the speed of light and relativity.

The theory of relativity takes an active role in our day-to-day routines as well. A moving car seen from a far distance seemingly moves at a slower pace than a traveling car seen from a closer point.

Because the theory dealt immensely with facts of the outer space, scientists are able to use Einstiein's findings to establish new astronomical facts. Human technology leaped forward into the space with the inventions of rockets and the Hubble Space Telescope, items that rely on the theory of relativity.



Another innovative device is the Atomic Clock, Global Positioning System, gadgets dependent on a satellite whose orbit is based upon the ideas proposed by Einstein. For the Atomic Clock's precision, the inventors had to account for the idea of warped time and space on which the satellite orbits, a phenomenon analyzed by Einstein in his theory of relativity (Lightman par. 4).



An Einstein-based invention that had changed the course of history is the nuclear fission bomb. The theory in this scenario may have acted for the worst in killing a mass of people; nevertheless, history has been made, and today's society would be in a different situation had it not happened.

The theory of relativity opened doors to other areas of science. Lenses, waves, and black holes were prominent roles in the theory and became a scientific marvel for later years to come. Gravity and Quantum physiscs, newly found aspects, became a beneficial study for physicists in exploring deeper into the universe and other unknowns ("Time According to Einstein... par. 5).

Einstein's theory has sparked much advancement in society, technology, and science. People understand certain simple occurrences, use a wide variety of high-quality gadgets, and start exploring new ideas through the theory of relativity. In the future, hopefully human beings can not only extend their graps deeper into the universe, but also work to improve the quality of Earth.


 * Works Cited**

Lightman, Alan. "Relativity and the Cosmos." __Nova: Einstein's Big Idea__. PBS. 27 Jan. 2009 [|www.pbs.org]. This PBS based webpage provides Einstein's findings that eventually led up to his theory of relativity. The site explains gravity and other galaxy related material. These indepth topics are then incorporated in explaining the theory of relativity.

Thorne, Kip, Saul Teukolsky, Lee Teukolsky, and Jimmy York. "The Struggle Lost, Einstein Pushes Further." __Simulating eXtreme Spacetimes__. Caltech and Cornell Universities. 27 Jan. 2009 http://www.black-holes.org/. This webpage provides theoretical and numerical explanations behind Einstein's reasoning on relativity. There are also links which go to other phenomenons that deal with relativity, such as black holes. Several pages include diagrams, images, or animations to provide a better understanding of Einstein's science.

"Time According to Einstein's Theory of Relativity." __What is Time?__ Think Quest. 27 Jan. 2009 . This site contained many descriptive images. In addition, a video following the text gave a 5 minute simple explanation on the theory of relativity. Furthermore, the text describes everyday phenomena based upon Einstein's theory.