Get to know Einstein's theory of relativity which has been proven through GPS technology

Albert Einstein put forward the phenomenal theory of relativity. This theory was a major step in the development of science and broke several laws of classical physics. Reporting from AFP, Michael Turner - Director of the Kavli Institute, revealed a brief description of Einstein's magical thinking. Turner stated that according to the theory of relativity, space and time are flexible, relative and dynamic. Both are not always the same in every place. This theory is also said to perfect the theory of gravity, which was previously initiated by Isaac Newton. Is it really like that? Come on, let's dive into Einstein's theory of relativity, including real evidence through global positioning system (GPS) technology.

What is the Theory of Relativity?

First, we need to understand what the theory of relativity is. Einstein created the theory of relativity around 1905 – 1915. Using a certain frame of reference (inertia), the theory of relativity discusses matters regarding speed and acceleration that occur in the universe.

There are two main concepts in this theory, namely, special relativity and general relativity.

1. Special theory of relativity

The special theory of relativity was first discovered by Einstein in 1905. Through the special theory of relativity, Einstein stated that the laws of physics and the speed of light were absolute. Everywhere, the laws of physics and the speed of light will work constantly. On the other hand, space and time are two relative and dynamic things. This idea then greatly influenced human thinking about time dilation, the relativity of energy and mass, and even Lorentz contraction.

2. General theory of relativity

We are certainly familiar with the concept of gravity, which was originally put forward by Isaac Newton. In 1915, Einstein perfected Newton's concept of gravity through the general theory of relativity. The general theory of relativity believes that gravity does not just happen but arises due to the curvature that exists in spacetime (spacetime warp).

The curvature appears related to the presence of mass quantities. This mass then attracts surrounding objects to approach the source of the curvature. So, what is the effect of this curve on space and time? According to Einstein, the greater the gravity, the slower time will pass in the curve.

GPS Technology, Concrete Evidence of Einstein's Theory of Relativity in Human Life

As mentioned at the beginning, Einstein's theory of relativity is very useful in the development of the world of science, likewise with various technological discoveries that are now increasingly embedded in human life. One of them is global positioning system technology, or what we know as GPS. Of course, we often use GPS to determine location, directions and time estimates.

The way it works looks simple. Satellites in orbit will transmit information/data to signal capture stations on Earth. Then, the station will send it again via GPS technology.

However, there is actually a time deviation that occurs between the motion of the satellite in orbit and the receiving station on Earth. With Einstein's theory of relativity, scientists created corrections to overcome this problem. The goal is for the level of GPS accuracy to reach maximum results.

One way is to change the frequency of the atomic clock ticking in the GPS system before the satellite is launched. In this way, the atomic clock will move in sync with the clock on Earth when it reaches orbit. Of course, this frequency change uses special formulas and calculations.

So, that's a simple discussion about Einstein's theory of relativity and how GPS technology validates the truth of this theory. Diving into one of Einstein's magical ideas contained in the theory of relativity is very interesting. Moreover, the theory is relevant and very useful in important discoveries for life.