Syllabus dot points

discuss the concept that length standards are defined in terms of time in contrast to the original metre standard

analyse information to discuss the relationship between theory and the evidence supporting it, using Einstein’s predictions based on relativity that were made many years before evidence was available to support it

discuss the implications of mass increase, time dilation and length contraction for space travel

explain qualitatively and quantitatively the consequence of special relativity in relation to:– the relativity of simultaneity– the equivalence between mass and energy– length contraction– time dilation– mass dilation

Use secondary sources to answer the following questions

1. Identify the current standard measurement for length. How has this changed over time?

Egyptians may be the earliest civilisation that discovered a standard unit for length. Length was measures in cubit developed around 3000BB; based on the length of the arm. The Greeks used the width of 16 fingers to find one foot. The Romans adopted the foot and divided it into 12 sections which was called unicae, known today as an inch. The yard was adopted by King Henry I in the 12th century.The current standard measurement for length is metres.

2. Identify evidence that supports Einstein’s predictions based on relativity.

The flying of atomic clocks to determine the existence of time dilation The dilated lifetimes of mesons penetrating the Earth’s atmosphere The energy yield from converted mass in nuclear reactions The observed increase in the mass of particles accelerated to near-light

speed, in devices such as particle accelerators.

3. Did Einstein receive a Nobel Prize for his theory of relativity?

No

4. Did Einstein act as a good scientist in proposing his theory of special relativity?

5. Discuss the implications of mass increase, time dilation and length contraction for space travel.

6. Explain qualitatively the consequence of special relativity in relation to the equivalence between mass and energy.

7. Explain quantitatively the consequence of special relativity in relation to the equivalence between mass and energy.

Egyptians may be the earliest civilisation that discovered a standard unit for length. Length was measures in cubit developed around 3000BB; based on the length of the arm. The Greeks used the width of 16 fingers to find one foot. The Romans adopted the foot and divided it into 12 sections which was called unicae, known today as an inch. The yard was adopted by King Henry I in the 12th century.The current standard measurement for length is metres.