Space-time

Relativity made Simple

Hello, Dear Readers!

In today's edition, we're embarking on an exciting journey titled "Relativity Made Simple." As the name suggests, we're breaking down the complex theory of relativity into easy-to-understand parts. It's a substantial topic, so we'll slice it into manageable sections. By the end of this series, you'll have a comprehensive guide.

But before we dive into relativity, here's a fun riddle from one of my favorite book series, "The Inheritance Games" by Jennifer Lynn Barnes: "If yes means no and once means never, how many sides does a triangle have?" We'll reveal the answer in our next issue.

Today, we're exploring the intriguing concept of space-time. A popular method to illustrate space-time is by comparing it to a trampoline. When you place a heavy object on a trampoline, it causes the fabric of the trampoline to bend and create curves. This bending is what leads to the experience of gravitational force because space-time itself bends. Objects with more mass create more significant bending than those with less mass. So objects with more mass will have a stronger gravitational force of attraction than an object with less mass.

Imagine having a bowling ball or any weighty object on a trampoline. Now, place a marble on the trampoline. You'll observe how the marble follows a curved path around the bowling ball. This same principle applies to stars, such as our sun, which bends the fabric of space around them. This means that the force of gravity is due to the bending of space-time so motion along gravity is actually motion along the bends and curves of space-time fabric. However, remember that while a trampoline is two-dimensional, space-time fabric is fourth-dimensional, making it a tad more intricate.

Photo by Hassaan Here on Unsplash

Let's pause here for now, and we'll continue our exploration in the next issue.

Quote of the week: One of my favorite quotes comes from Albert Einstein: "Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will spend the rest of its life thinking it's stupid." Each of us possesses unique talents and abilities. It's essential to recognize that not everyone can be measured by the same standards. Discovering your strengths may not be easy; it can take years, even decades. The elimination technique can be a helpful way to find your true talents. If you're unsure about your strengths, begin by eliminating the things you struggle with. Gradually, your options will narrow down, and you'll be one step closer to finding what you excel at. Remember, the path to discovering your genius is a journey worth taking.

We've taken our first step into understanding the fascinating world of space-time and relativity. Remember, the journey of learning and self-discovery is an ongoing adventure. So, until our next issue, keep your curiosity alive and your mind open. Together, we'll continue to unravel the mysteries of the universe and explore the depths of our own potential.