About the Course
If a woman travels to a nearby star system at close to the speed of light, she will return much younger than her twin sister, who stayed home. This is just one of the discoveries revealed by Albert Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity, which revolutionized physics. Perhaps the most famous equation in science, E = mc2, revealed that matter and energy are equivalent, setting the stage for atomic bombs and nuclear power plants. It showed that an object's length depends on its speed relative to an observer, that the passage of time depends on relative motion, and that an object's mass varies with speed. This course explores the problems and inadequacies of Newtonian mechanics, then shifts focus to Einstein's groundbreaking solution, the Special Theory of Relativity. Through class discussions and extensive problem solving, you'll learn about the principle of relativity and the light postulate, simultaneity, relativistic kinematic and dynamic calculations, light cones, k-calculus, and Minkowski space, and explore mathematical concepts underlying Einstein's general theory of relativity and how they can help us understand the universe.
Typical Class Size: 18-20
Typical Class Size: 18-20
Learning Objectives
- Solve problems using theoretical and mathematical pre-relativistic frameworks and experiments to reconcile mechanics and electromagnetism
- Apply processes such as dilation, contraction, and simultaneity to produce conceptual and quantitative explanations of the implications of special relativity on the speed of light and the interrelatedness between speed, space, time, and mass
- Justify the principles of special relativity by solving problems in relativistic mechanics and electromagnetism
About Advanced Enrichment courses
These courses offer above-grade-level material that is presented in a novel context, explored with other advanced learners, and guided by a CTY educator to help prepare students for higher-order thinking and college-style academic challenges. Students work individually and may finish the course early if they complete all requirements before the course end date.
Requirements
CTY courses have grade-level requirements and most require minimum test scores. Some courses may also have prerequisites.
Identification DetailsDates and Tuition
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Registration Fee and Financial Aid
Tuition and fees will be waived or reduced for students who qualify for financial aid.
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