The theory of relativity is actually comprised of two interrelated theories

developed by Albert Einstein:

Special Relativity (1905): This theory deals with the relationship between space
and time in the absence of gravity. It revolutionized our understanding of these
fundamental concepts. Here are some key points:

Constancy of the Speed of Light: Regardless of the motion of the observer or the
light source, the speed of light in a vacuum is always the same (approximately
299,792,458 meters per second).
Time Dilation: Time slows down for objects in motion relative to an observer. The
faster an object moves, the slower its time runs compared to a stationary observer.
Length Contraction: Objects in motion appear shorter in the direction of their
motion compared to an observer at rest.
General Relativity (1915): This theory extends special relativity to include
gravity. It proposes that gravity is not a force, but rather a curvature of
spacetime caused by the presence of mass and energy. Here are some key concepts:

Curvature of Spacetime: Mass and energy distort the fabric of spacetime, similar to
how a bowling ball placed on a trampoline creates a dip.
Geodesics: Objects, including light, follow the curved paths in spacetime created
by mass and energy. This is what we perceive as gravity.
Gravitational Time Dilation: Time also runs slower in stronger gravitational
fields. This means clocks tick slower closer to massive objects like stars or black
holes.
Consequences of Relativity:

Mass-Energy Equivalence: Einstein's famous equation E=mc² emerges from special

relativity. It implies that mass and energy are equivalent and can be converted
into each other under certain conditions.
Relativity of Simultaneity: Events that appear simultaneous to one observer may not
be simultaneous to another observer in a different reference frame.
Relativity of Velocity: There is no absolute rest or absolute motion. Velocity is
always relative to another observer.
Understanding relativity requires a shift in our perception of space and time. It
can be challenging to grasp at first, but it has profound implications for our
understanding of the universe.