2005-2006 Colloquium Series

---

NAU Physical Sciences (Bldg 19, Rm 321), Monday, 14 November 2005, 4:00 PM
(Refreshments at 3:45pm)

Gedanken Experiments and the Relativity of Simultaneity
A Physical and Personal Perspective on Albert Einstein and Time

Gary Bowman
NAU

Abstract

This year is the centenary of Albert Einstein's invention of the special theory of relativity, the most puzzling aspect of which is the relativity of simultaneity. Einstein used his famous gedanken (thought) experiment of a train struck by two lightning bolts to illustrate relative simultaneity. I will discuss foundational aspects of this experiment, and of a lesser known but conceptually simpler alternative gedanken experiment.

I hope, also, to use this talk as a vehicle to present a personal perspective on Einstein, and in so doing to pay tribute to a man that has inspired me for some two decades.

---

Local Host: Dave Cornelison, (928) 523-7641.