Chapter 5, Problem 5.1CYU

Check Your Understanding Explain how special relativity differs from general relativity.

To determine

The difference between the special relativity and general relativity.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The special relativity is the theory which is given by Albert Einstein. According to this theory, the speed of the light within the vacuum remains constant.

The general relativity is also a theory given by Albert Einstein. This theory state that the speed of the light in the vacuum does not depend on the motion of the observer.

The differences between the special relativity and the general relativity are shown in the below Table.

Table-(1)

S.No.	Special relativity.	General relativity.
1	It is applicable for the non accelerated motion.	It is applicable for the accelerated motion.
2	It is a simple theory and does not cover the whole universe.	It is a complex theory and also covered the greater part of the universe.
3	In this theory, there are velocity differences between the inertial frames.	In this theory there are acceleration differences between the non-inertial frames.
4	The kinetic energy states escape velocity is equal to the gravity.	The potential energy states acceleration is equal to the gravity.

Conclusion:

Thus, the difference between the special relativity and general relativity are shown in the Table-(1).