Special relativity is applied to
A) reference frames that are accelerating.
B) reference frames that do not accelerate.
C) very difficult mathematical problems involving the speed of light and other large values.
D) both special relativity and what Einstein called general relativity.
E) rare instances in which the object moves faster than the speed of light.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Special relativity is only applied to reference frames that do not accelerate, also known as inertial reference frames. It deals with the properties of space and time in such reference frames, specifically with the behavior of objects moving at high speeds relative to each other. Choice A is incorrect because special relativity does not apply to accelerating reference frames, that is covered by Einstein's theory of general relativity (Choice D). Choices C and E are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the scope of special relativity.

Special Relativity Is Applied to