Brian Greene Explains That Whole General Relativity Thing

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert6 minutes read

Professor Brian Greene, a physics and mathematics professor at Columbia University, explores Einstein's revolutionary General Theory of Relativity, which redefined gravity 100 years ago, linking it to motion and space. Einstein's breakthrough at the patent office in 1907 stemmed from his focus on understanding gravity and the sun's ability to warp space and time to create planetary orbits.

Insights

  • Einstein's General Theory of Relativity, introduced a century ago, reshaped our comprehension of gravity, connecting it to the curvature of space-time, a concept that revolutionized physics.
  • Professor Brian Greene, a prominent physicist, emphasizes Einstein's pivotal role in altering our perception of gravity through General Relativity, highlighting the profound impact of this theory on our understanding of the universe.

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Recent questions

  • Who is Professor Brian Greene?

    A physics and mathematics professor at Columbia University.

  • What is the Science Mobile used for?

    Available for rent for conventions.

  • How did Einstein revolutionize our understanding of gravity?

    With his General Theory of Relativity.

  • What did Newton's formula explain about gravity?

    Gravity's strength, not how it worked.

  • What was Einstein's focus in his Special Theory of Relativity?

    Understanding gravity.

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Summary

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Einstein's Gravity Theories: Revolutionizing Understanding

  • Professor Brian Greene is a physics and mathematics professor at Columbia University and co-founder of the World Science Festival.
  • The Science Mobile is available for rent for conventions.
  • Einstein's General Theory of Relativity, presented 100 years ago, revolutionized our understanding of gravity.
  • Newton's formula explained gravity's strength but not how it worked, leaving that question for others to solve.
  • Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity in 1905 redefined space and time, with E=mc^2 as an afterthought.
  • Einstein's focus was on understanding gravity, leading to his breakthrough in 1907 while working at the patent office.
  • General Relativity linked gravity and motion, explaining how the sun warps space and time to create orbits for planets.
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