Faster Than the Speed of Light: the Story of a Scientific Speculation.JOAO MAGUEIJO In his general theory of relativity Noun 1. general theory of relativity - a generalization of special relativity to include gravity (based on the principle of equivalence) Einstein's general theory of relativity, general relativity, general relativity theory , Albert Einstein postulated pos·tu·late tr.v. pos·tu·lat·ed, pos·tu·lat·ing, pos·tu·lates 1. To make claim for; demand. 2. To assume or assert the truth, reality, or necessity of, especially as a basis of an argument. 3. that light travels at one speed only, a concept that physicists almost universally have accepted. Magueijo, a professor of theoretical physics at Imperial College in London, boldly challenges this notion and thus the entire physics community. The author puts forth the idea that the speed of light is not constant and that light traveled faster in the early universe than it does today. Dubbed dub 1 tr.v. dubbed, dub·bing, dubs 1. To tap lightly on the shoulder by way of conferring knighthood. 2. To honor with a new title or description. 3. the varying speed of light theory (VSL VSL Vessel (shipping) VSL Value of Statistical Life VSL Virtual Software Library VSL Variable Speed of Light (theoretical cosmology/physics) VSL Vector Statistical Library VSL Straight Line Velocity ), this concept could lead to a universal theory that explains everything from space travel to string theory, Magueijo asserts. He makes his case while clearly spelling out both VSL and relativity. In the process of detailing the science behind his ideas, the author also decries his opponents and shares his travails in getting his controversial theory before his peers and the public. Perseus Pubng, 2003, 279 p., b&w photos/illus., hardcover, $26.00. |
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