In: Physics
1. Provide an example of an inertial frame of reference and a non-inertial frame of reference. Explain the difference.
2. Using the Michelson-Morley experiment as an example, explain why classical mechanics was unable to explain natural phenomena.
3. Using at least one of Einstein's "thought-experiments", explain how special relativity addresses how it is possible for observers in two different inertial reference frames to “disagree” about time and distance intervals.
4. Describe how special relativity explains the conditions under which classical mechanics breaks down.(When would you, as an observer begin to notice the effects of time dilation and length contraction?)
5. In the early 20th century, the law of conservation of mass was replaced by the law of conservation of mass-energy. Why was this change needed, and how does E=mc2 relate to the special theory of relativity?