Abstract |
Evaluation of the additive constants in the space-time Lorentz transformation equations required, according to Einstein, to correctly describe synchronised clocks at different spatial locations, reveals the spurious and unphysical nature of the 'relativity of simultaneity' and 'length contraction' effects of conventional special relativity. Unlike time dilation, there is no experimental evidence for these putative effects. Only a universal (position independent) time dilation effect for different inertial frames distinguishes special from Galilean relativity. |
Keywords and phrases
special relativity, time dilation, length contraction, relativity of simultaneity.
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